Indian Navy Strengthens Fleet with INS Himagiri & Udaygiri

The Indian Navy is set to enhance its naval capabilities with the induction of two advanced stealth frigates, INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri. These state-of-the-art warships are part of the Project 17A initiative, aimed at modernizing the naval fleet and strengthening India’s maritime security.

Project 17A: Strengthening India’s Naval Power

Project 17A is an advanced warship development initiative focused on building stealth frigates equipped with next-generation technology. Under this program, a total of seven frigates are being constructed, four at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai and three at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. The project highlights India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing and the advancement of naval technology.

INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri: Cutting-Edge Frigates

INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri are designed with advanced stealth features, including radar-absorbent materials and a reduced radar signature to enhance survivability. These frigates have a displacement of around 6,670 tons and a length of 149 meters, capable of achieving speeds over 28 knots. Their sophisticated weapons systems and sensors enable them to engage in anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare operations.

Advanced Combat and Defense Capabilities

Both frigates are armed with the Barak-8 long-range surface-to-air missile system for aerial defense, BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for precision strikes, and Varunastra torpedoes and anti-submarine rocket launchers to counter underwater threats. The inclusion of advanced sonar systems, digital radars, and electronic warfare suites provides these warships with superior detection and threat-neutralization capabilities.

Induction Timeline and Strategic Importance

INS Udaygiri is expected to be commissioned in March 2025, followed by INS Himagiri in August 2025. Their induction marks a significant step in India’s efforts to enhance maritime security and expand its naval reach. The addition of these frigates to the fleet will further strengthen India’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region and its ability to respond to evolving security challenges.

The arrival of INS Himagiri and INS Udaygiri reinforces the Indian Navy’s operational readiness, aligning with the country’s broader vision of maritime dominance and indigenous defense capabilities.