- India has commissioned two advanced Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) multi-mission stealth frigates—INS Himgiri and INS Udaygiri—as part of its ongoing naval modernization program.
- These frigates feature enhanced stealth capabilities, improved hull design, and advanced weapon systems compared to their predecessors under Project 17 (Shivalik-class).
Project 17A Overview:
- Fleet Composition: The seven ships include INS Nilgiri, INS Udaygiri, INS Himgiri, INS Taragiri, INS Mahendragiri, INS Dunagiri, and INS Vindhyagiri.
- Capabilities: Equipped with BrahMos supersonic missiles, Barak-8 missiles, LRSAM, torpedoes, rocket launchers, advanced radars, and Shakti Electronic Warfare Suite.
- Design Features: Multi-mission frigates designed for Blue Water operations, capable of countering conventional and non-conventional threats. Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS) optimizes functionality and crew coordination.
- Propulsion: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) main propulsion system with controllable pitch propellers ensures high efficiency and speed.
Ship Highlights:
- INS Himgiri: First P-17A stealth frigate built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE).
- INS Udaygiri: Second P-17A stealth frigate built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL); also the 100th ship designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau.
Legacy and Operations:
- Both ships revive historic names of earlier vessels—INS Udaygiri (1976) and INS Himgiri (1974)—which were actively involved in Operation Pawan, Operation Cactus, and Operation Sahayata.
- The Project 17 Bravo (P-17B) stealth frigates, approved in 2024, will follow Project 17A, continuing India’s journey toward advanced naval capabilities.
- The commissioning of INS Himgiri and INS Udaygiri strengthens India’s maritime security and showcases the nation’s growing indigenous warship design and production capabilities.