NavalDefense – Indigenous Warships Set for Major Navy Induction in Kolkata
NavalDefense – India is set to mark a significant milestone in strengthening its maritime capabilities as the Indian Navy prepares to formally induct three domestically built frontline platforms — Dunagiri, Sanshodhak, and Agray — during a commissioning ceremony in Kolkata on June 21. The event will take place at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port and is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of his two-day visit to West Bengal.
Prime Minister to Lead Commissioning Ceremony
According to official information released by the Ministry of Defence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will oversee the induction of the three vessels into naval service. The ceremony is scheduled for the morning and will be followed by an address to those gathered for the occasion. The commissioning highlights India’s continued focus on expanding its indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and enhancing maritime preparedness.
Platforms Built to Strengthen Multiple Naval Functions
The three newly commissioned vessels have been designed and constructed in India, reflecting the country’s growing expertise in naval shipbuilding. Developed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata, each platform has been tailored for a specific operational role.
Defence officials stated that the induction of these ships supports a balanced modernization strategy aimed at improving combat readiness, maritime surveillance, and coastal security. Together, they are expected to contribute to both blue-water operations and the protection of strategic maritime interests.
Dunagiri Enhances Surface Combat Capability
Dunagiri, the fifth vessel under the Project 17A stealth frigate programme, is equipped with advanced combat systems designed to strengthen naval firepower. The warship carries BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles as well as a Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile system, enabling it to address a variety of threats in complex operational environments.
The frigate also incorporates modern sensors and stealth features that improve survivability and effectiveness during naval missions. Its addition is expected to provide a notable boost to the Navy’s frontline combat fleet.
Sanshodhak Supports Hydrographic and Scientific Missions
The survey vessel Sanshodhak has been developed to conduct detailed hydrographic surveys in both coastal and deep-sea regions. The ship is capable of collecting critical oceanographic and geophysical information that can support defence planning as well as civilian maritime activities.
Officials noted that the vessel is fitted with advanced survey equipment, including Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and Remotely Operated Vehicles. These systems will help improve the accuracy of underwater mapping and data collection for a wide range of applications.
Agray Focuses on Underwater Threat Detection
Agray, the fourth vessel in the Arnala-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft series, has been designed to counter underwater threats in coastal and shallow-water regions. The platform is equipped with lightweight torpedoes, indigenous rocket launchers, and sonar systems developed for anti-submarine operations.
Its role will be particularly important in safeguarding India’s littoral waters and improving the Navy’s ability to identify and respond to submarine-related threats close to the coastline.
Indigenous Shipbuilding Receives Major Boost
The commissioning of these three platforms also reflects the progress achieved by India’s domestic shipbuilding sector. Officials said the vessels contain more than 75 percent indigenous content, underscoring the increasing self-reliance of the country’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
More than 200 micro, small and medium enterprises participated in the construction process, generating substantial employment and supporting a broad industrial network. The Ministry of Defence described the project as an example of cooperation between the government, the Navy, public shipyards, private industry, and MSMEs in advancing the goals of self-reliance and maritime strength.