Visakhapatnam: Defence public sector undertaking Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has delivered INS Mahendragiri, an advanced stealth frigate, to the Indian Navy in a major boost to India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
The commissioning ceremony was held in Visakhapatnam in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The induction of INS Mahendragiri strengthens the Indian Navy’s surveillance capabilities, operational reach, and maritime security presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
The warship has been built under the Project 17A Nilgiri-class stealth frigate programme and reflects India’s growing capabilities in designing and manufacturing advanced naval platforms under the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
INS Mahendragiri: Fourth Nilgiri-Class Stealth Frigate Built by MDL
INS Mahendragiri is the fourth ship of the Nilgiri-class stealth frigates constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders under Project 17A.
The basic design of the warship was developed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB), while the detailed engineering, construction, and integration work were carried out by MDL at its Mumbai facility.
The construction process was supervised by the Warship Overseeing Team (Mumbai) to ensure compliance with strict naval quality and operational standards.
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Advanced Technical Features and Combat Capabilities
INS Mahendragiri is equipped with modern naval technologies, advanced sensors, automated systems, stealth features, and sophisticated weapon systems.
Key Specifications of INS Mahendragiri:
- Class: Nilgiri-Class Stealth Frigate
- Project: Project 17A
- Length: 149 metres
- Breadth: 17.8 metres
- Displacement: Approximately 6,400 tonnes
- Propulsion System: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG)
- Engines: Two Gas Turbines and Two Main Diesel Engines
- Maximum Speed: More than 28 knots
- Indigenous Content: Around 75%
The warship is designed to perform multiple missions, including maritime surveillance, surface warfare, air defence operations, and protection of India’s maritime interests.
Stronger Indian Navy Presence in Indian Ocean Region
The induction of INS Mahendragiri will enhance the Indian Navy’s ability to monitor and respond to maritime challenges.
The advanced frigate will contribute to:
- Improved maritime surveillance
- Enhanced operational flexibility
- Stronger naval presence in the Indian Ocean Region
- Better protection of India’s strategic interests
The vessel represents a significant addition to India’s fleet amid increasing focus on maritime security and naval modernisation.
Faster Construction and Improved Shipbuilding Efficiency
MDL achieved significant progress in construction efficiency during the development of INS Mahendragiri.
The company recorded a 21% reduction in construction period compared to the First-of-Class vessel under the Nilgiri-class programme.
The ship successfully completed:
- Sea Trials
- Final Machinery Trials
within just two months of Basin Trials, helping accelerate the delivery timeline.
Over the last 16 months, Mazagon Dock has delivered:
- Five warships
- One submarine
to the Indian Navy, highlighting the shipyard’s growing production capability.
INS Mahendragiri Achieves High Indigenous Content
A major feature of INS Mahendragiri is its approximately 75% indigenous content, reflecting the strength of India’s domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The project involved participation from:
- Indian defence industries
- MSMEs
- Domestic technology suppliers
This collaboration has supported indigenous technology development, strengthened supply chains, and generated opportunities for local industries.
Supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence Manufacturing
The commissioning of INS Mahendragiri aligns with the Government of India’s objective of reducing dependence on imported defence equipment and promoting domestic manufacturing.
The project demonstrates the capability of Indian shipyards and defence industries to develop advanced naval platforms with significant indigenous contribution.
The induction of the stealth frigate further strengthens India’s ambition of becoming a leading maritime power.
About MDL
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) is a leading defence public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Based in Mumbai, MDL specializes in building warships, submarines, and other strategic naval platforms for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. The company plays a crucial role in India’s defence self-reliance mission by developing advanced indigenous naval capabilities and supporting the growth of the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
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