Indian Navy Commissions advanced frigates INS Udaygiri and Himgiri

The Navy on Tuesday (August 26) commissioned two advanced frontline frigates of the Nilgiri class, Udaygiri (F35) and Himgiri (F34). The two advanced warships are highly indigenised and are part of the Project 17 Alpha (P-17A). The lead vessel of the class, INS Nilgiri, was launched earlier this year.

According to a government statement, this is the first time two major surface combatants from two prestigious Indian Shipyards are being commissioned at the same time at Visakhapatnam.

Manufactured indigenously, says Rajnath

“INS Himgiri, manufactured by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), and INS Udayagiri, manufactured by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, are both modern warships that have been manufactured indigenously,” said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the event.

“I have been told that there are many advanced capabilities in these warships. They can accommodate long-range surface-to-surface air missiles, supersonic Brahmos missiles, indigenous rocket launchers, torpedo launchers, combat management system, and fire control systems. These two warships will prove to be a game-changer in dangerous operations at sea,” he added as quoted by ANI.

Singh exuded confidence that these warships will not only strengthen the security system and safeguard maritime interests, but will also assist in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief missions. He stated that the commissioning bolsters India’s policy of Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security & Growth for All in the Region). These frigates, which will enhance the capability of the Indian Navy, send a message that India is fully capable of protecting its maritime borders and is ready to respond immediately to any situation,” he added.

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PM's dream of Aatmanirbhar Bharat

The Defence Minister described the commissioning as a giant stride towards the realisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and a proof of the Government’s vision and commitment.

“INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri are the shining examples of the Government’s firm resolve towards self-reliance, symbols of a transformative movement, and testament to the vision that the nation will touch greater heights and obtain the goal of self-reliance with concerted efforts of all stakeholders,” he said, commending the seamless collaboration between MDL and GRSE in constructing and delivering the two potent warships.

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Navy's role in Operation Sindoor

Lauding the prompt planning and execution of the Indian Navy during Operation Sindoor, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that “the adversary realises the strength and capability of our Navy and what it can do”. He termed the seamless synergy among the three Services and other security agencies/departments during the operation as proof that the nation stands united in every challenge and tackles it effectively.

“India does not believe in aggressive expansionism. We never attack any country or provoke anyone. But, this doesn’t mean we bow before those who mean to harm us. When our security is threatened, we know how to give a befitting reply. Innocent civilians were killed in Pahalgam. We gave an effective, measured and precise response through Operation Sindoor. We pledged to destroy terrorist hideouts and successfully achieved our goals. I want to reiterate that the operation is not over; it is merely a pause. Today, the entire nation is united against terrorism under the leadership of PM Modi, and this national unity, discipline, sacrifice & dedication are our real strength,” added Singh.

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Generational leap over earlier designs

While the second ship of the Project 17A stealth frigates has been built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, Himgiri is the first of the P17A ships being constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. Udaygiri is the 100th ship designed by the Navy's Warship Design Bureau.

Udaygiri and Himgiri, the latest additions to the Navy’s frigate fleet, represent a generational leap over earlier designs. Displacing about 6,700 tons, the P17A frigates are roughly five per cent larger than their predecessor Shivalik-class frigates and yet incorporate a sleeker form, with a reduced radar cross-section.

The cutting-edge warships are powered by Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion plants using diesel engines and gas turbines that drive controllable-pitch propellers and are managed through an Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).

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Bristling with missiles and guns

Armed to the teeth, the two warships are equipped with supersonic Surface-to-Surface Missiles, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles, 76 mm MR Gun and a combination of 30 mm and 12.7 mm Close-in Weapon Systems and the Anti-submarine/ Underwater weapon systems.

“Both ships are the result of an industrial ecosystem spanning over 200 MSMEs, supporting approximately 4,000 direct jobs and more than 10,000 indirect jobs,” the statement read.

“Both ships are the result of an industrial ecosystem spanning over 200 MSMEs, supporting approximately 4,000 direct jobs and more than 10,000 indirect jobs,” it added.

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Undergone rigorous sea trials

Both warships have undergone rigorous sea trials to test their hull, machinery, firefighting, damage control, navigation and communication systems, ensuring they are ready for operational deployment.

“ The commissioning of Udaygiri and Himgiri underscores the Navy's commitment to self-reliance in ship design and construction and follows the commissioning of other indigenous platforms, including destroyer INS Surat, frigate INS Nilgiri, submarine INS Vaghsheer, ASW Shallow Water Craft INS Arnala, and Diving Support Vessel INS Nistar, all in 2025 alone,” the statement said.