The 6,670-ton Indian stealth frigate INS Mahendragiri, which can carry the supersonic BrahMos missile, was officially commissioned into the Eastern Fleet at Visakhapatnam today.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh called it a significant boost to India’s maritime power projection, highlighting its sophisticated armaments, sensors, and more than 75% indigenous content.
Senior naval officers and dignitaries attended the commissioning event, which was held at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai, the frigate is the sixth member of the Nilgiri-class under Project 17A.
BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, which are among the fastest and deadliest in the world, can be installed on the vessel. In order to protect the fleet from aerial threats, it also has a 32-cell vertical launch system for Barak-8 medium-range surface-to-air missiles.Weapons & Firearms
The Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system of INS Mahendragiri allows for lengthy endurance for prolonged deployments and speeds of up to 28 knots. The frigate is optimized for efficiency and survival in contemporary naval warfare thanks to its high automation, decreased radar signature, and sophisticated stealth characteristics.
Additionally, the ship has a multi-role helicopter, w
hich improves its observation and anti-submarine capabilities. Its integrated combat management system enables smooth coordination of search and rescue, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine missions.While new technology like drones, artificial intelligence, cyberwarfare, hypersonic weapons, and space-based systems are changing the nature of warfare, conventional military might is still the cornerstone of defense, according to Defense Minister Rajnath Singh.
“Future wars may be fought with artificial intelligence, but they will still be won by national resolve, trained soldiers, and credible military power,” he declared.The Defense SectorAs a result of expedited shipbuilding timetables, the frigate’s induction is the sixth stealth frigate to be put into service in just 18 months. INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri are examples of earlier ships of the class. The ₹45,000 crore Project 17A program is anticipated to be completed by the last ship, Vindhyagiri.
INS Mahendragiri exemplifies India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat strategy with its tagline, “Mighty–Majestic–Matchless,” highlighting the potential of MSMEs and indigenous defense companies. A goshawk perched atop the Mahendragiri mountain is depicted on its crest, signifying keen vision, endurance, and decisive action.
India’s blue-water navy, which can protect maritime interests not only along the coast but also throughout the Indian Ocean Region and beyond, is strengthened by the frigate. It is anticipated to improve deterrence against regional threats and contribute to a safe Indo-Pacific by acting as a powerful force multiplier.
