Indian Navy Receives Taragiri, Fourth Nilgiri-Class Frigate Under Project 17A

The Indian Navy has taken delivery of “Taragiri” (Yard 12653), the fourth frigate of the Nilgiri Class under Project 17A and the third constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. Delivered on 28 November 2025, the vessel marks a significant step forward in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in warship design and construction. It also revives the legacy of the former “INS Taragiri”, a Leander-class frigate that served the nation for 33 years.

Advanced Capabilities and Indigenous Design

Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and overseen by the Warship Overseeing Team, the Project 17A frigates represent a major generational upgrade in stealth features, survivability and combat systems. “Taragiri” showcases high levels of automation and reduced radar signature, reflecting a modern design approach aligned with India’s Aatmanirbharta vision for the defence sector.

Propulsion Systems and Integrated Platforms

The ship is equipped with a Combined Diesel or Gas propulsion system, incorporating both diesel engines and gas turbines driving controllable pitch propellers. The Integrated Platform Management System enables advanced control and monitoring, ensuring operational efficiency and enhanced survivability in multi-threat environments.

Weapons and Sensor Suite

“Taragiri” carries an upgraded combat package compared to earlier classes, including BrahMos surface-to-surface missiles, the MFSTAR radar and MRSAM complex, a 76 mm Super Rapid Gun Mount, close-in weapon systems, and anti-submarine rockets and torpedoes. These systems provide the ship with robust multi-dimensional warfare capabilities across air, surface and subsurface domains.

Exam Oriented Facts

• “Taragiri” delivered on 28 November 2025 as the fourth Project 17A frigate.
• Features CODOG propulsion, MFSTAR radar, BrahMos SSM and MRSAM systems.
• Build period compressed to 81 months due to experience from earlier vessels.
• Project 17A has 75% indigenous content and involves over 200 MSMEs.

Impact on Indigenous Shipbuilding

The accelerated delivery of four P17A frigates within 11 months demonstrates India’s growing proficiency in complex warship construction. With three more ships scheduled for progressive delivery by August 2026, Project 17A continues to generate large-scale employment and strengthen India’s defence industrial ecosystem, reinforcing its position as a rising maritime power.