Indian Navy to commission stealth frigate ‘Taragiri’ on April 3 in boost to Aatmanirbhar defence

Pic/PTI

The Indian Navy is set to commission its indigenous stealth frigate Taragiri on April 3 at Visakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone in India's push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reported news agency PTI.

The commissioning ceremony will be presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Part of advanced Project 17A warship programme

Taragiri is the fourth ship under the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) and the third vessel built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilding Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai, reported PTI.

The warship was delivered to the Navy in November last year and represents a major step forward in indigenous warship design and construction.

Equipped with advanced weapons and stealth features

The 6,670-tonne frigate is equipped with a modern suite of weapons, including supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, medium-range surface-to-air missiles and advanced anti-submarine warfare systems, reported PTI.

Officials said these systems are integrated through a state-of-the-art combat management system, enabling rapid and precise response to threats.

The vessel also features a significantly reduced radar cross-section, enhancing its stealth capabilities during operations.

Designed for multi-dimensional operations

Powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, Taragiri is capable of high-speed and long-endurance missions.

The ship is designed for a wide range of roles, including combat operations, maritime surveillance, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, reported PTI.

Strong focus on indigenous manufacturing

With over 75 per cent indigenous content, the warship reflects the growing strength of India's domestic defence ecosystem.

Officials said more than 200 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have contributed to the project, supporting employment and boosting local industry under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reported PTI.

Symbol of next-generation naval capability

The Navy described Taragiri as a "quantum leap" in design, automation, survivability and firepower compared to earlier warships.

It is expected to enhance India's maritime capabilities and strengthen its presence in strategically important waters.

Boost to maritime security and diplomacy

Beyond combat roles, the frigate is also designed to support humanitarian missions and disaster response, making it a versatile asset in both military and civilian operations, reported PTI.

The commissioning of Taragiri is being seen as a key step in strengthening India's maritime security and its ambition to emerge as a major naval power.

(With inputs from PTI)