Indian Navy Updates

INS Vindhyagiri and Project 17A

vindhyagiri

Central Idea

  • President’s launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the final vessel in the Project 17A (Alpha) frigates series, marked a significant milestone for India’s maritime strength and self-reliance.
  • The launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the sixth vessel in the Project 17A Frigates series, carries forward India’s naval legacy.

About INS Vindhyagiri

  • INS Vindhyagiri is the sixth ship of the Project 17A Frigates series, showcasing India’s commitment to indigenous defense technology and self-reliance.
  • After INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri, INS Vindhyagiri derives its name from a mountain range in Karnataka.
  • These frigates are a follow-on class of the Project 17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates, integrating improved stealth, advanced weapons, and cutting-edge sensors.
  • It is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India.

Key features

  • Employs a cutting-edge propulsion system enabling speeds of over 28 knots, ensuring rapid response and agility in various operational scenarios.
  • Equipped with state-of-the-art stealth features, enhancing its ability to operate discreetly and minimize detection.
  • Over 75% of the equipment and systems used are sourced from indigenous firms, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Back2Basics: Project 17A

  • Project 17 Alpha frigates (P-17A) were launched by the Indian Navy in 2019.
  • The first stealth ship launched was the Nilgiri, launched in 2019.
  • The project was launched to construct a series of stealth guided-missile frigates, which are currently being constructed by two companies:
  1. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) and
  2. Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE).
  • These guided-missile frigates have been constructed with a specific stealth design, which has radar-absorbent coatings and is low-observable which can make its approach undetectable for the enemies.
  • The new technology also reduces the infrared signals of the ship.

Join the Community

Join us across Social Media platforms.

💥UPSC 2026, 2027 UAP Mentorship - June Batch Starts
💥UPSC 2026, 2027 UAP Mentorship - June Batch Starts