Kolkata: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd proudly handed over ‘Himgiri’, the first of three advanced guided-missile frigates under the Indian Navy’s Project 17A, marking a historic milestone on Monday. This delivery not only enhances India’s naval capabilities but also represents GRSE’s 801st vessel delivered, including an unmatched 112 warships, reinforcing its position as a premier Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU).
Advanced Capabilities Elevate Indian Navy’s Power
Himgiri is a 149-metre-long, 6,670-tonne state-of-the-art guided-missile frigate featuring high indigenous content, which aligns with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan initiative promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Equipped with cutting-edge BrahMos anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles and Barak 8 anti-aircraft missiles, the frigate significantly boosts the Navy’s strike and defense potential. The ship’s advanced AESA radar and modern combat systems provide multi-dimensional warfare capabilities, including anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine operations.
Strengthening the Nation’s Shipbuilding Ecosystem
The contract for three such frigates amounts to over ₹21,833.36 crore, with a major share of the work benefiting MSMEs, startups, and OEMs across India, thereby generating employment and strengthening the local supply chain. This delivery underscores GRSE’s commitment to promoting India’s indigenous defence production and contributing to the nation’s strategic autonomy.
Robust Shipbuilding Pipeline and Future Prospects
Rear Admiral Ravnish Seth, Chief Staff Officer (Technical), Eastern Naval Command, accepted Himgiri on behalf of the Indian Navy. Launched on December 14, 2020, the vessel accommodates 225 personnel and supports full aviation facilities, including helicopter operations.
Currently, GRSE is engaged in constructing 15 warships across four classes for the Indian Navy. Notably, Androth, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASWSWC), and Ikshak, the third Large Survey Vessel, have completed contractor sea trials and are nearing delivery. Additionally, GRSE is poised to soon finalize a contract for building five Next Generation Corvettes, having emerged as the lowest bidder, further cementing its vital role in strengthening India’s naval fleet.
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About GRSE
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) is a leading warship builder in India, operating under the Ministry of Defence. Headquartered in Kolkata, GRSE is known for delivering complex naval platforms and has been instrumental in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities. It has built over 100 ships for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard and offers expertise in design, engineering, and construction of a wide range of vessels for defence and commercial use.
