Indian Navy Inducts Advanced Frigate Mahendragiri To Strengthen Sea Power

The Indian Navy is set to enhance its maritime strength with the commissioning of INS Mahendragiri, the sixth indigenous stealth frigate under the Project 17A programme. The advanced warship will be inducted into naval service at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, marking another major step in India’s efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing capabilities. Built with advanced technologies and a high level of indigenous content, INS Mahendragiri represents the country’s growing expertise in designing and producing modern naval platforms.

INS Mahendragiri features a sophisticated stealth design aimed at reducing radar visibility and improving survivability in complex maritime environments. The warship is equipped with a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, allowing it to perform high-speed operations while maintaining the endurance required for long-duration missions. Its advanced automation systems, sensors, and combat capabilities enable it to conduct multiple roles, including anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, and anti-submarine operations.

The frigate has been developed with more than 75 per cent indigenous components, reflecting the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector. The construction of the vessel involved a wide network of Indian manufacturers, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), helping strengthen the domestic defence ecosystem. The project has also contributed to local employment opportunities and encouraged greater participation of Indian companies in advanced defence production.

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Project 17A frigates are an upgraded follow-on class of the Shivalik-class Project 17 frigates, featuring improved design, enhanced stealth characteristics, and modern combat systems. A significant share of equipment and systems used in these warships has been sourced from Indian industries, supporting the Navy’s long-term goal of increasing self-reliance and reducing dependence on foreign defence suppliers.

INS Mahendragiri is named after the Mahendragiri mountain peak in Odisha, continuing the Indian Navy’s tradition of naming major warships after mountain ranges and peaks that represent strength, stability, and resilience. With its advanced capabilities and indigenous construction, the frigate is expected to play an important role in protecting India’s maritime interests and strengthening the Navy’s operational readiness across the Indian Ocean region.

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