In a significant development for India’s naval capabilities, the INS Surat recently demonstrated its operational prowess during the high-stakes Operation Sindoor, marking the warship’s combat debut less than six months after its commissioning. According to reports, the destroyer was deployed in the Arabian Sea, underscoring its readiness for complex missions.
Commissioned in January 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, INS Surat represents the final installment of the Visakhapatnam-class destroyers developed under Project 15B. Named after the historic port city in Gujarat, it symbolizes a notable advancement in India’s maritime strength, as well as the country’s commitment to defense self-reliance.
Captain Sandeep Shorey, the commanding officer of INS Surat, characterized the vessel as “a true multi-role destroyer,” capable of detecting, classifying, and neutralizing enemy threats across various dimensions—air, surface, and underwater. With a displacement of 7,400 tonnes and powered by gas turbines, the ship can achieve speeds of up to 30 knots, making it suitable for extended naval missions.
INS Surat boasts an impressive array of armaments, including BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles, torpedoes, and IRL rocket launchers capable of firing 150 rockets simultaneously. Additionally, the high-speed anti-aircraft gun can unleash 4,000 rounds per minute, ensuring formidable defense against aerial threats. The destroyer is also outfitted with advanced radar systems for comprehensive air and underwater tracking, complemented by two integral helicopters that enhance its reconnaissance and anti-submarine capabilities.
A distinguishing feature of INS Surat is its designation as India’s first Artificial Intelligence-enabled warship. Developed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, the vessel incorporates indigenous AI technology aimed at improving combat decision-making processes and navigational efficiency.
With 75% of its content sourced indigenously, INS Surat exemplifies India’s increasing capabilities in defense manufacturing. Its successful engagement in Operation Sindoor not only showcased its advanced systems under real combat conditions but also marked a crucial milestone in India’s naval modernization efforts and its broader strategy for maritime deterrence. The operation highlights the significance of the INS Surat in bolstering India’s maritime defense posture and enhancing its operational readiness in a complex regional security environment.
