Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday underscored India's growing stature as a significant maritime power and a dependable global partner, as he presided over the commissioning of three naval warships at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
The commissioning of a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine on the same day marked a historic milestone for the Indian Navy. All three vessels—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—are proudly 'Made in India,' highlighting the nation's strides in indigenous defence manufacturing under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.
A memorable day, which will ensure a stronger India! pic.twitter.com/YypdGW9Q2K
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2025
PM Modi emphasized India's commitment to an open, secure, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. "India is emerging as a major maritime power and is recognized as a reliable and responsible partner on the global stage," he remarked.
He stressed the need for a unified approach to secure seas from threats like drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism. "India is poised to play a crucial role in global security, economic progress, and geopolitical dynamics," the Prime Minister said.
Indigenous Naval Strength
PM Modi lauded the advancements in India's defence capabilities, noting that 33 ships and seven submarines have been inducted into the Navy over the past decade. The defence production sector has achieved significant growth, crossing ₹1.25 lakh crore in output and exporting equipment to over 100 countries.
INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class, is a cutting-edge vessel representing an evolution from the Shivalik-class frigates. Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), the frigate integrates advanced stealth technology, modern aviation facilities, and reduced radar signatures, making it a formidable asset.
INS Surat, the fourth and final vessel of the Project 15B stealth destroyer class, is a follow-on to the Kolkata-class destroyers. Also designed by the Warship Design Bureau and built at MDL, it features enhanced design and capabilities to bolster the Navy's surface fleet.
INS Vaghsheer, the sixth submarine of the Scorpene-class Project 75, is a diesel-electric submarine designed for versatile roles, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, as well as intelligence gathering. Built with modular construction for future upgrades like air-independent propulsion technology, INS Vaghsheer exemplifies the Navy's focus on technological sophistication.
India's Strategic Maritime Vision
Highlighting India's role as a "first responder" in the Indian Ocean region, PM Modi stressed the importance of protecting territorial waters, ensuring freedom of navigation, and securing trade supply lines. He reiterated India’s focus on development rather than expansionism, aiming to foster regional peace and cooperation.
The commissioning of these state-of-the-art vessels marks a significant leap in India's naval capabilities and reflects the country’s commitment to self-reliance, innovation, and global security.
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