Kolkata, 30 March (H.S.): The Indian Navy on Monday received three indigenously built warships at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited in Kolkata, marking a significant boost to India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The ships delivered include stealth frigate ‘Dunagiri’, survey vessel (large) ‘Sanshodhak’ and anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft ‘Agray’. All three vessels have been designed and constructed using predominantly indigenous technology and systems.

‘Dunagiri’, the fifth ship of the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A), is equipped with advanced weapons and sensor suites, including BrahMos surface-to-surface missiles, MFSTAR radar and MRSAM systems. The frigate represents a major leap in stealth, automation and combat capability, officials said.

‘Sanshodhak’, the fourth and final survey vessel (large), is designed for coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys and collection of oceanographic data. With a displacement of around 3,400 tonnes and a length of 110 metres, the vessel is fitted with modern survey equipment and can achieve speeds of over 18 knots.

‘Agray’, the fourth of eight Arnala-class anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts, is about 77 metres long and is equipped with lightweight torpedoes, indigenous rocket launchers and advanced sonar systems, enhancing the Navy’s underwater combat and coastal surveillance capabilities.

Officials said the vessels have a high indigenous content ranging from 75 to over 80 per cent, reflecting the country’s growing capabilities in ship design and construction. The projects have also generated significant employment, involving thousands of personnel directly and indirectly.

The delivery of these ships is seen as a major milestone in strengthening India’s maritime defence capabilities and advancing the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey