PM Modi Unveils New Naval Power: INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer Signal India’s Rise as a Global Leader

India has reached a significant milestone by commissioning three new vessels into its Navy at once. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted this achievement, stating that India is set to influence global security and economic dynamics. He emphasized that the nation focuses on development rather than expansion.

The newly inducted ships are:

• INS Surat: The last of the four Visakhapatnam-class stealth guided-missile destroyers.
• INS Nilgiri: The first of seven new stealth guided-missile frigates under Project 17 Alpha.
• INS Vaghsheer: The final submarine in the Kalvari-class diesel-electric attack series.

During the commissioning ceremony held at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, Modi described this event as a “giant leap” towards enhancing the Navy’s self-reliance. He noted the importance of linking India’s rich naval history with its ambitions for the future. For instance, he mentioned how the INS Nilgiri pays homage to the maritime legacy of the Chola dynasty, while INS Surat reflects India’s historical connections with West Asia through its ports.

Modi remarked that today’s commissioning reinforces India’s commitment to a secure Indo-Pacific region, where it advocates for safety and cooperation among neighboring nations. He introduced the SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region) strategy, emphasizing India’s role in promoting security and economic growth.

The Prime Minister pointed out India’s growing reputation as a reliable partner in global security matters. He explained that a strong navy is crucial for protecting trade routes, ensuring freedom of navigation, and combating illicit activities at sea. Modi also highlighted the Indian Navy’s proactive rescue operations in the Indian Ocean, which have saved numerous lives and safeguarded valuable cargo.

Beyond military gains, he stressed that India’s defense production capabilities have seen considerable growth, with plans to increase domestic manufacturing. The aim is to reduce dependency on foreign equipment while enhancing the confidence of Indian soldiers who use locally-made gear. In the last decade, the Navy has inducted 33 ships and 7 submarines, mostly built in India. This effort is part of the broader Make in India initiative, which has transformed the defense ecosystem.

Modi also shared insights about the economic impact of shipbuilding, noting how investments not only strengthen national security but also create jobs and stimulate the economy. The potential for job creation in related industries is significant, with estimates suggesting that every shipbuilding job could lead to multiple jobs in supporting sectors.

Key vessels in detail

INS Nilgiri

INS Nilgiri is a state-of-the-art stealth frigate, representing the latest advancements in naval technology. Built in India, it features advanced stealth capabilities and can operate multiple helicopter types, enhancing its operational versatility.

INS Surat

INS Surat is a powerful destroyer that enhances the Navy’s surface fleet. It integrates advanced design and functionality, complementing the capabilities of earlier warships while being fully crafted within India.

INS Vaghsheer

As a diesel-electric submarine, INS Vaghsheer is designed for various operations, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare. Its modular design allows for upgrades, ensuring it remains relevant in modern combat scenarios.

Each of these vessels is now fully operational and set to bolster India’s maritime capabilities. They not only serve military objectives but also symbolize India’s commitment to innovation and self-reliance in defense.

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