On September 1, a momentous event will unfold in Mumbai, marking a significant stride in India’s pursuit of defense indigenization. The fourth stealth guided missile frigate of Project 17A, aptly named ‘Mahendragiri,’ is set to be launched. This development underlines India’s commitment to bolstering its maritime capabilities through cutting-edge technology and indigenous innovation.
The Mahendragiri, belonging to the Nilgiri-class frigate category, is anticipated to be commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2027. The launch ceremony will be graced by the presence of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who will serve as the chief guest. This milestone achievement is the result of the collaborative efforts of the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), a prominent entity in India’s shipbuilding landscape.
Project 17A comprises four vessels, namely Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Taragiri, and Mahendragiri. The lead ship of this class, Nilgiri, was inaugurated on September 28, 2019, and is anticipated to be commissioned by 2024. Udaygiri was launched on May 17, 2022, followed by Taragiri on September 11, 2022. The keel of Mahendragiri was laid on June 28, 2022, and its launch is slated for September 1, 2023. Udaygiri, Taragiri, and Mahendragiri are projected to be commissioned in 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively.
These vessels are a testament to India’s prowess in naval architecture and engineering, particularly the Nilgiri-class frigates crafted at the Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd in Kolkata. This class includes Himgiri, Dunagiri, and Vindhyagiri, with launch dates in December 2020, July 2022, and August 2023, respectively. These ships are designed by the Indian Navy’s Bureau of Naval Design, a testament to the nation’s self-reliance in developing advanced maritime assets.
The Mahendragiri stands as a technological marvel, stretching 149.02 meters in length and 17.8 meters in width. Propelled by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) system comprising two Gas Turbines and two Main Diesel Engines, it’s designed to achieve speeds exceeding 28 knots at a displacement of approximately 6,670 tons. Its hull construction is fortified with indigenously developed DMR 249A steel—a low-carbon micro alloy grade steel manufactured by SAIL, a testament to India’s metallurgical capabilities.
The Mahendragiri frigate is equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, advanced sensors, an integrated platform management system, modular living spaces, and a sophisticated power distribution network. Among its standout features is a supersonic surface-to-surface missile system, underlining its offensive capabilities. The vessel’s air defense prowess centers on a vertical launch and long-range surface-to-air missile system, while 30 mm rapid-fire guns ensure close-in-defense capability. An SRGM Gun enhances naval gunfire support, and the vessel’s anti-submarine capabilities are augmented by indigenously developed triple tube lightweight torpedo launchers and rocket launchers.
The launch of the Mahendragiri and its counterparts in the Nilgiri-class frigate category is a testament to India’s dedication to achieving self-reliance and technological excellence in the realm of defense. These vessels not only exemplify advanced engineering but also highlight India’s commitment to strengthening its naval capabilities to safeguard its maritime interests. As the Mahendragiri takes its place in India’s naval fleet, it symbolizes the nation’s journey towards indigenization, innovation, and security in the maritime domain.
AFI
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