Scorpene-class submarine among 3 frontline platforms to be inducted by Navy

On January 15, 2024, the Indian Navy will commission three advanced platforms—INS Vagsheer, INS Surat, and INS Nilgiri—at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. These platforms signify a milestone in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities and maritime security strategy.

Key Platforms

1. INS Vagsheer (Submarine)

• Type: Scorpene-class submarine (6th and final of its class).
• Manufacturing: Built under a license from France’s Naval Group at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL).
• Features:
  • High stealth capabilities with reduced acoustic signatures.
  • Equipped with advanced torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.
  • Ideal for covert surveillance, intelligence gathering, and anti-submarine operations.

2. INS Surat (Destroyer)

• Type: Project-15B stealth destroyer (4th and final of its class).
• Design: Indigenously designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau.
• Features:
  • Equipped with Indigenous weaponry like BrahMos missiles and Barak-8 air defence systems.
  • Enhanced stealth features with a reduced radar cross-section.
  • Capability to host multiple helicopters including Chetak, Dhruv, Sea King, and MH-60R.

3. INS Nilgiri (Frigate)

• Type: Project-17A stealth frigate (Lead ship of the class).
• Design: Indigenously designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau.
• Features:
  • Advanced stealth technology with reduced radar and infrared signatures.
  • Enhanced capabilities compared to Shivalik-class frigates.
  • Modern sensors, weapons, and integrated navigation systems.
  • Helicopter operations: Chetak, Dhruv, Sea King, and MH-60R Seahawk.

Significance of the Platforms

1. Technological Advancements

• Stealth Technology: Reduces visibility to radar and sonar, enhancing survivability in combat.
• Advanced Weaponry: Equipped with state-of-the-art missiles, torpedoes, and air-defense systems.
• Modern Systems: Integration of advanced sensors, navigation, and communication systems.

2. Indigenous Manufacturing

• All platforms are manufactured by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL) in Mumbai.
• Represents a milestone in Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiatives.

3. Strategic Importance

• Strengthens India’s naval combat capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Reinforces maritime security and trade route protection in the Indo-Pacific.

4. Gender Inclusivity

• Accommodations designed for women officers and sailors, reflect progress in gender inclusion within the Navy.

Conclusion

The commissioning of INS Vagsheer, INS Surat, and INS Nilgiri is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in Indigenous defence manufacturing. These platforms bolster the Navy’s combat readiness and strengthen its role in ensuring maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. This milestone reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance and technological excellence in defence.

Sharing is caring!