In a significant step towards enhancing its maritime capabilities, the Indian Navy is set to commission two Project-17 Alpha (P-17A) frigates in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. This event marks a crucial milestone in a 2015 initiative aimed at expanding the Navy’s surface combatant fleet. The two new frigates, INS Himgiri (F34) and INS Udaygiri (F35), were built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai, respectively.
This occasion is particularly notable as it showcases the first integration of warships constructed by different partners into the naval force in Visakhapatnam. The commissioning is backed by extensive sea trials that have validated the vessels’ hulls, machinery, and vital systems, ensuring they are ready for operational deployment.
India’s defense ministry emphasized that the upcoming ceremony will transcend a mere naval ritual, representing a celebration of the nation’s progress towards a self-sufficient maritime defense ecosystem. The induction of the two ships sends a clear message about India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests with vessels that are created, designed, and manned by Indians—a manifestation of the Make in India initiative.
The development of these vessels has fostered significant economic benefits, involving over 200 micro, small, and medium enterprises, resulting in approximately 4,000 direct job opportunities and more than 10,000 indirect jobs across the country.
The Project-17A, also known as the Nilgiri class, is an enhanced iteration of the Indian Navy’s existing P-17 Shivalik frigates, which were introduced in 2012. Each frigate measures 149 meters in length and has a beam of 18 meters. These vessels boast advanced propulsion systems powered by two General Electric LM2500 engines and two MAN Diesel engines, which enable a top speed of 32 knots and a remarkable operational range of 5,500 nautical miles.
The P-17A class vessels are designed to accommodate up to 150 personnel, a maritime helicopter, and two rigid hull inflatable boats. In terms of armament, they are equipped with a 16-millimeter naval gun, a 12.7-millimeter remote gun, and a suite of missiles for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.
The lead ship of the P-17A class, INS Nilgiri (F33), entered service in January, and New Delhi anticipates the completion of all seven vessels under this program by 2026. This strategic enhancement not only fortifies India’s naval capabilities but also reinforces its position as a burgeoning maritime power in the region.
