Indian Navy to Induct Five Indigenous Naval Platforms

The Indian Navy is set to induct five indigenous naval platforms in 2026, including two Project 17A stealth frigates, one Survey Vessel (Large), and two anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft. The platforms include INS Dunagiri, INS Mahendragiri, Sanshodhak, Agray, and Malwan.

Project 17A Stealth Frigates

Project 17A is a class of stealth frigates built for the Indian Navy with a focus on reduced radar cross-section and modern combat systems. Dunagiri is the fifth ship of the Nilgiri-class and was delivered by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata on 30 March 2026. INS Mahendragiri is another Project 17A frigate scheduled for induction in June 2026.

Survey Vessel (Large) Programme

Sanshodhak is the fourth and final Survey Vessel (Large) in a four-ship series contracted in 2018. The vessel was delivered by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata on 30 March 2026. Survey vessels of this class are used for hydrographic surveys, charting, and collection of seabed data for naval and maritime use.

Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft

Agray is the fourth anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft in its class and was delivered on 30 March 2026. Malwan was inducted at Kochi on 31 March 2026 and was built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. ASW shallow water craft are designed for operations in coastal and littoral waters against submarines and underwater threats.

Important Facts for Exams

• Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers is a shipyard based in Kolkata and has built several warships for the Indian Navy.
• Cochin Shipyard Limited is located in Kochi and builds naval and commercial vessels in India.
• Project 17A frigates belong to the Nilgiri-class of stealth frigates.
• The Indian Navy plans to operate over 200 warships and submarines by 2035.

Indigenous Content and Naval Self-Reliance

The new platforms have indigenous content ranging from 75% to over 80%. The Indian Navy has linked these inductions with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and the goal of complete self-reliance in naval capabilities by 2047.