*PM Modi commissions INS Surat, Nilgiri, Vaghsheer*
Mumbai: In a landmark achievement for India’s defence forces and the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat initiative, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three state-of-the-art naval combatants at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on Monday.
The newly commissioned ships—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—represent a major step forward in India’s ambitions to emerge as a global leader in defence manufacturing and maritime security.
The commissioning of these platforms underscores India’s growing self-reliance in naval capabilities. INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, is among the largest and most advanced destroyers in the world. INS Nilgiri, the first ship of the P17A Stealth Frigate Project, boasts cutting-edge features for enhanced survivability and stealth. Meanwhile, INS Vaghsheer, the sixth and final submarine under the P75 Scorpene Project, is one of the quietest and most versatile diesel-electric submarines globally.
All three platforms have been designed and constructed entirely at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai. Notably, these ships also feature facilities to support a large complement of women officers and sailors. Additionally, the vessels are equipped with modern aviation capabilities, including the ability to operate various helicopters, such as Chetak, ALH, Sea King, and the newly inducted MH-60R.
During the commissioning ceremony, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s growing recognition on the global stage as a reliable and responsible partner. He stated, “India is now being recognized as a dependable partner, particularly in the Global South. Our approach is centered on development, not expansionism.”
Modi also emphasized India’s role as the “First Responder” in the Indian Ocean Region, where the Indian Navy has recently carried out critical rescue operations and safeguarded national and international cargo. This commitment has significantly bolstered global trust in India’s naval capabilities.
Addressing India’s rapid economic growth, which is propelling the country toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy, the Prime Minister pointed out the growing demand for ships and containers. He noted that the port-led development model would not only accelerate economic growth but also generate substantial employment opportunities, particularly in the maritime sector. India’s seafaring workforce has seen a notable increase, growing from fewer than 1.25 lakh seafarers in 2014 to nearly 3 lakh today.
The commissioning of these combatants is a testament to India’s vision of self-reliance in defence manufacturing. INS Surat boasts 75% indigenous content and is equipped with advanced weaponry and sensor systems. INS Nilgiri, designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, incorporates cutting-edge stealth and seakeeping technologies. INS Vaghsheer showcases India’s growing expertise in submarine construction, in collaboration with the French Naval Group.
In closing, Prime Minister Modi celebrated the commissioning of these vessels as a major step toward empowering the Indian Navy in the 21st century. “For the first time, a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine are being commissioned together, and all three are Made-in-India,” he said.
The event marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards maritime excellence and self-reliance, with the Indian Navy poised to play an even greater role on the world stage.
