Commissioning of two advanced stealth frigates in the Indian Navy – INS Udaygiri and INS Himagiri

Why in news ?

• On 26 August 2025, the Indian Navy will commission two state-of-the-art stealth frigates – INS Udaygiri and INS Himagiri – fulfilling its ambitious goals of modernization and self-reliance.
• This will be a milestone for the Navy as it will be the first time that two warships are launched on the same day.
• The event reflects India’s expanding maritime security capabilities, indigenous success in defense production, and the achievement of a robust industrial network.

INS Udaygiri and INS Himagiri: Two ships, two prestigious shipyards

• INS Udaygiri is the second ship of the Project 17A series, built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
• INS Himagiri is the first ship of the Project 17A series, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
• INS Udaygiri is also the 100th warship designed by the Naval Warship Design Bureau (WDB), marking a significant milestone for indigenous design.

Advanced design and capabilities

• These frigates have a displacement of approximately 6,700 tons, about 5% more than the Shivalik-class ships.
• Their radar-evading and optimized hull design helps them avoid enemy radar detection.
• They use a CODOG (Combined Diesel or Gas) propulsion system, which offers both speed and efficiency.
• Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS) ensures smooth operation and control.
• Equipped with supersonic surface-to-surface missiles effective at long range.
• Medium-range surface-to-air missiles for air defense.
• A 76 mm main gun and 30 mm and 12.7 mm weapons for close-range protection.
• Advanced anti-submarine warfare systems like torpedoes and sonar.

Industrial development and job creation

• Over 200 MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) participated in the construction of both ships.
• The project has generated approximately 4,000 direct and more than 10,000 indirect jobs.
• It is seen as a successful example of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

Rigorous testing and operational readiness

• Before commissioning, the frigates underwent extensive sea trials successfully, including hull integrity, propulsion, navigation, communication, and fire control.
• These trials ensured that both warships can perform efficiently even in challenging maritime environments.

Significance in the 2025 naval modernization campaign

• The commissioning of INS Udaygiri and Himagiri adds a new dimension to India’s naval modernization.
• The campaign has already included indigenous ships such as INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, INS Vagsheer, INS Arnala, and INS Nistar.
• This will play a crucial role in enhancing India’s maritime strength and strategic influence.