Kolkata, June 21 (NVI) The Indian Navy today got more power as 3 advanced maritime military platforms were inducted into the force here.
The inductions are — stealth frigate INS Dunagiri, large survey vessel INS Sanshodhak and an anti-submarine shallow water craft INS Agray.
These state-of-the-art platforms will significantly enhance the nation’s operational capabilities, maritime security against geopolitical threats, and domain awareness.
“No nation can emerge as a major power without strong maritime capabilities. Development, security and prosperity are closely linked to the oceans. Most of the world’s trade moves through sea routes, while vast global data networks operate beneath the oceans,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while commissioning the three platforms.
He said India does not wish to remain merely a buyer in the defence sector but “seeks to become a producer and a manufacturer, because nations that manufacture become decisive players on the global stage.”
During the recent past, 40 indigenously-built warships and submarines have been inducted into the Indian Navy while 45 major naval platforms are currently under construction.
The three ships have been designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau as well as by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), and constructed by GRSE, with extensive participation by Indian industry, including more than 200 MSMEs.
INS Dunagiri
The frigate is designed for high-end operations as it has been built using modular construction techniques and is armed with supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, advanced air defence systems, MR Gun, close-in weapon systems and advanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Its propulsion and Integrated Platform Management System ensure endurance, agility and operational flexibility.
Its reach is augmented by integral helicopter carrying ability, capable of operating various types of helicopters at extended ranges.
INS Sanshodhak
It is the fourth Survey Vessel (Large) class ship and its induction will contribute to the sustainable use of ocean resources, aid coastal and offshore development, supporting India’s vision of MAHASAGAR.
INS Sanshodhak is equipped with advanced hydrographic and oceanographic systems and four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs).
These systems provide highly precise hydrographic data, enabling the sustainable utilisation of ocean resources, strengthening the resurgent Blue Economy.
Its twin-engine diesel propulsion along with state-of-the-art platform management systems enhance her operational reach covering the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The ship also features dual-role capability and can be configured as a Hospital Ship, while also being capable of helicopter operations.
INS Agray
It adds critical capability to the Navy’s shallow-water anti-submarine and mine warfare posture.
The fifth in a series of Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), Agray is equipped with advanced Sonar, Torpedoes, Anti-Submarine Rockets and a Combat Management System. Designed for agility in littoral waters and powered by waterjets, the vessel offers formidable underwater detection and engagement capability.
Together, the induction of Dunagiri, Sanshodhak and Agray reflects the Navy’s expanding ability of building a balanced, networked and mission-ready force.
These advanced ships are capable of undertaking Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations as well as Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations. (NVI)
