INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer
On January 15, 2025, the Indian Navy commissioned three significant warships: INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer. This event marked a notable milestone as it was the first time a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine were commissioned simultaneously.
INS Nilgiri
INS Nilgiri is the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class. It represents a major advancement over the previous Shivalik-class frigates, featuring enhanced stealth capabilities such as a reduced radar signature and advanced acoustic quietening. The ship is equipped with a variety of modern weapons systems, including:
– Armament:
– 8 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles
– 32 Barak-8 / MRSAM surface-to-air missiles
– Two 30 mm AK-630M close-in weapon systems (CIWS)
– Two L&T triple torpedo launchers
– Two L&T Indigenous Rocket Launchers for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) rockets
– Specifications:
– Length: 149 meters
– Displacement: Approximately 6,700 tons
– Speed: Up to 32 knots
INS Nilgiri is designed to operate various helicopters, including the newly inducted MH-60R, and has specific accommodations for women officers and sailors, reflecting the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusion in combat roles.
INS Surat
INS Surat is the fourth and final ship of the Project 15B guided missile destroyers. It is one of the largest destroyers in the Indian Navy, weighing around 8,000 tons. Key features include:
– Armament:
– Similar missile capabilities as INS Nilgiri, including BrahMos missiles and Barak-8 missiles.
– Technological Edge:
– Notably, it is India’s first AI-enabled warship, incorporating advanced network-centric warfare capabilities.
– Specifications:
– Designed with an indigenous content of approximately 75%, showcasing India’s growing defense manufacturing capabilities.
The commissioning of INS Surat enhances India’s surface combat capability significantly.
INS Vaghsheer
INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final submarine of the Scorpene-class project. This class of submarines is known for its stealth capabilities and advanced technology. Key attributes include:
– Stealth Features:
– Advanced acoustic absorption techniques and air-independent propulsion systems that enhance its operational range and stealth.
– Role:
– Designed as a ‘hunter-killer’ submarine, capable of engaging various maritime threats effectively.
The commissioning of INS Vaghsheer further strengthens India’s underwater combat capabilities.
Significance
The induction of these three vessels underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its maritime security and self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who emphasized the importance of these advancements for India’s position on the global stage in terms of defense capabilities[1][2][9].
Source: The Hindu
Q. Which of the following statements is correct regarding the recent commissioning of warships by the Indian Navy on January 15, 2025?
1. INS Nilgiri is a Project 15B guided missile destroyer.
2. INS Surat is the lead ship of the Project 17A stealth frigate class.
3. INS Vaghsheer is the sixth submarine of the Scorpene-class project.
(a) Only statement 1 is correct
(b) Only statement 2 is correct
(c) Only statement 3 is correct
(d) None of the statements are correct
Correct Answer: (C)
