INS Sumitra

INS Sumitra (P59) is an offshore patrol vessel (OPV) of the Indian Navy, designed for maritime surveillance, coastal defence, and escort duties. Built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), it is the fourth and largest vessel in the Saryu-class patrol vessel series, which plays a vital role in safeguarding India’s vast maritime interests and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Commissioned in 2014, INS Sumitra is one of the most versatile surface ships in the Navy’s Eastern Fleet, frequently deployed for security patrols, humanitarian missions, and diplomatic engagements.

Design and Construction

INS Sumitra was built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited, showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in naval shipbuilding.

• Class and Type: Saryu-class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV)
• Builder: Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)
• Launched: 6 December 2010
• Commissioned: 4 September 2014
• Commissioned by: Admiral Robin K. Dhowan, Chief of Naval Staff
• Base: Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam

The ship’s design is an advanced version of the earlier Sukanya-class OPVs, featuring enhanced speed, range, automation, and endurance for long-range maritime operations.

Specifications

Armament and Equipment

INS Sumitra is equipped with modern sensors, communication systems, and weapons for maritime surveillance and limited combat operations.

• Primary Armament:
  • One 76 mm Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) for surface and aerial targets.
  • Two 30 mm Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS) for close-range defence.
• Sensors and Electronics:
  • State-of-the-art radar and electro-optical sensors for navigation, surface search, and fire control.
  • Integrated Communication System and Electronic Warfare Suite for situational awareness and secure operations.
• Aviation Facilities:
  • A flight deck and hangar capable of operating Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH Dhruv) or Chetak helicopters.
  • Facilities for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to extend surveillance range.

Roles and Operations

INS Sumitra is designed for multi-mission maritime roles, blending security, defence, and humanitarian responsibilities.

1. Maritime Surveillance and EEZ Patrols

The ship conducts extensive patrols in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), monitoring shipping lanes, deterring piracy, and ensuring the protection of offshore assets.

2. Anti-Piracy and Escort Operations

INS Sumitra has been deployed in the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea for anti-piracy missions, safeguarding merchant vessels and sea lanes of communication.

3. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)

The vessel is equipped to provide emergency assistance during natural disasters, including rescue operations, medical aid, and evacuation.

4. Search and Rescue (SAR)

INS Sumitra often assists in search and rescue operations in the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean, reinforcing India’s maritime safety network.

5. Diplomatic and Goodwill Missions

The ship participates in naval diplomacy, representing India in international exercises, port calls, and goodwill visits, strengthening bilateral ties with friendly nations.

6. Coastal Security and Surveillance

Deployed along the Eastern Seaboard, Sumitra enhances maritime domain awareness and coastal defence, particularly in the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) region.

Notable Operations and Achievements

1. Operation Raahat (2015): INS Sumitra played a critical role in evacuating hundreds of Indian and foreign nationals from Yemen during the civil war. Operating under extreme conditions, the ship rescued stranded civilians from the port of Aden and other coastal areas, earning national and international acclaim.
2. Republic Day 2015: INS Sumitra was the Presidential Yacht during the Republic Day celebrations in 2015 when U.S. President Barack Obama attended as Chief Guest — a historic first in India’s diplomatic history.
3. Eastern Fleet Deployments: The vessel routinely undertakes long-range deployments in the Bay of Bengal, Andaman Sea, and Southeast Asia, promoting maritime cooperation through joint exercises and port calls in countries like Thailand, Myanmar, and Singapore.
4. Humanitarian Missions in the Indian Ocean: Sumitra has frequently provided assistance to distressed vessels, fishermen, and coastal communities affected by cyclones and maritime incidents.

Strategic Importance

INS Sumitra plays a vital role in India’s maritime security strategy, contributing to the vision of “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR). Its presence in the Eastern Naval Command strengthens India’s capacity for blue-water operations, extending the Navy’s reach and surveillance across the eastern Indian Ocean and the Andaman Sea.
The ship’s versatility enables it to perform both military and non-military roles, from combat patrols to humanitarian assistance, aligning with India’s growing regional maritime responsibilities.

Technological and Indigenous Significance

The Saryu-class ships, including INS Sumitra, symbolise the success of India’s indigenous shipbuilding capability. Goa Shipyard’s design integrates Indian-made systems such as propulsion control, navigation aids, and electronic warfare suites. The vessel’s construction marked a significant step in India’s ambition for self-reliance under the concept of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” in defence manufacturing.