Indian Navy to commission historic trio of combat platforms on 15 january 2025

On 15 January 2025 India will witness a historic milestone in its maritime defence capabilities as the Indian Navy prepares to commission three cuttingedge combat platforms mdash Nilgiri Surat and Vaghsheer mdash at Naval Dockyard Mumbai This momentous event will mark the commissioning of Nilgiri the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class Surat the final vessel of the Project 15B stealth destroyer class and Vaghsheer the sixth and last submarine of the Scorpeneclass projectThis unprecedented occasion not only underscores Indiarsquos strides in enhancing its naval combat potential but also highlights the nationrsquos growing prowess in indigenous shipbuilding cementing the countryrsquos reputation as a global leader in defence manufacturingThe Nilgiri a part of the Project 17A class is set to redefine the capabilities of Indiarsquos naval fleet This modern stealth frigate surpasses the earlier Shivalikclass frigates in design and technological advancements Featuring reduced radar signatures and stateoftheart stealth technology Nilgiri is equipped with advanced sensors and weapon systems many of which are developed indigenously or in collaboration with global defence manufacturersDesigned by the Indian Navys Warship Design Bureau Nilgiri incorporates enhanced aviation facilities that allow it to operate a range of helicopters such as the Chetak ALH Sea King and the newly inducted MH60R The ship is also equipped with a RailLess Helicopter Traversing System and Visual Aid and Landing Systems ensuring smooth operations under all conditions With the inclusion of women officers and sailors Nilgiri also embodies the Navyrsquos ongoing commitment to gender inclusion in combat rolesThe commissioning of Surat will mark the final step in the Project 15B destroyer class a successor to the Kolkataclass Project 15A destroyers Surat boasts significant upgrades in design and capabilities further elevating Indiarsquos naval might The destroyer is equipped with cuttingedge weaponry and advanced systems that will bolster Indiarsquos naval security and strategic capabilitiesLike Nilgiri Surat has been designed to accommodate modern aviation operations making it capable of operating a wide range of helicopters This enhances the shiprsquos multidimensional role in both peacetime and wartime maritime operationsVaghsheer the sixth and final submarine of the Scorpeneclass under Project 75 further bolsters Indiarsquos submarine fleet Known for its quiet operations Vaghsheer is one of the most silent and versatile dieselelectric submarines globally capable of undertaking various critical missions including antisurface and antisubmarine warfare intelligence gathering area surveillance and special operationsArmed with wireguided torpedoes antiship missiles and advanced sonar systems Vaghsheer also features modular construction which allows for future upgrades such as the integration of Air Independent Propulsion AIP technology further enhancing its operational range and stealth capabilitiesThe commissioning of Nilgiri Surat and Vaghsheer is a testament to the remarkable progress India has made in building selfreliance in defence manufacturing All three platforms were designed and constructed entirely at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited MDL in Mumbai marking a significant achievement in the nationrsquos defence production capabilitiesThe rigorous trials these platforms have undergone including machinery tests hull inspections firefighting and damage control drills alongside the proving of navigation and communication systems have ensured their readiness for deployment The commissioning of these ships and submarines signifies Indiarsquos increasing ability to independently design build and maintain advanced naval assetsThis historic occasion not only amplifies Indiarsquos maritime strength but also represents the nationrsquos significant strides in defence technology and selfsufficiency As Nilgiri Surat and Vaghsheer join the Indian Navyrsquos fleet they mark a defining moment in the nationrsquos history and a symbol of Indiarsquos ambition to become a global leader in defence manufacturing and maritime security