India strengthens maritime power with historic naval commissioning

Mumbai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a significant milestone in India's maritime history by commissioning three advanced naval platforms—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. This historic event, the first of its kind, saw a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine commissioned together, showcasing India's growing self-reliance in defence.

PM Modi called the day a proud moment for India's maritime heritage and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. “These Made-in-India platforms highlight India's emergence as a major maritime power,” he stated. He also emphasised India's role in ensuring maritime security, particularly in the Indian Ocean region, noting the Navy's lifesaving missions and commitment to global peace.

INS Surat, a stealth destroyer, and INS Nilgiri, a stealth frigate, were designed by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. INS Vaghsheer, the sixth Scorpene-class submarine, features cutting-edge modular technology for future upgrades.

PM Modi also outlined India's ambition in maritime and economic domains. He highlighted India's strides in deep-sea exploration and its journey to becoming the world’s third-largest economy.

Citing India's naval progress, including the induction of 33 ships and seven submarines over the past decade, Modi linked this growth to leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who laid the foundation for India's naval legacy. "India is poised to become a global maritime leader," he affirmed, reinforcing the nation's commitment to safeguarding international waters and ensuring global stability.