India's New Naval Powerhouses: INS Surat, Nilgiri, and Vaghsheer

India's Strategic Move Towards Maritime Dominance

Recently, India made a significant advancement in its maritime capabilities by commissioning three frontline naval combatants: INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer, at the naval dockyard in Mumbai. This development signifies a major leap in self-reliance and progress in indigenous shipbuilding.

Significance of the New Naval Assets

• INS Surat: As the fourth and final destroyer under Project 15B, INS Surat boasts advanced weapon-sensor packages and is predominantly made from indigenous components. It is among the largest destroyers globally, featuring modern network-centric capabilities.
• INS Nilgiri: This is the lead ship of Project 17A, designed with stealth features and enhanced survivability. It represents a new benchmark for India's next-generation frigates.
• INS Vaghsheer: A diesel-electric Scorpene-class submarine, INS Vaghsheer is equipped with wire-guided torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, with a modular design allowing future upgrades like Air Independent Propulsion (AIP).

Reflecting Self-Reliance in Defence

Of the 40 ships inducted into the Indian Navy over the past decade, 39 have been constructed in Indian shipyards. Significant examples include the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and the nuclear submarines INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. These achievements underscore India's focus on the "Make in India" initiative in defence manufacturing, with exports reaching over 100 countries and production exceeding ₹1.25 lakh crore.

Comparing India's Naval Power to Regional Rivals

India's maritime advancements occur amidst escalating regional threats. With Chinese backing, Pakistan is enhancing its navy to challenge India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), aspiring to build a 50-ship fleet. Meanwhile, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) of China is the world's largest, boasting over 370 active ships and aiming for dominance in contested waters.

Future-Ready Features of the Warships

• INS Surat and INS Nilgiri: These vessels are equipped for helicopter operations, featuring rail-less helicopter traversing systems and stealth features to evade radar detection.
• INS Vaghsheer: This submarine is capable of anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and special operations, thanks to its adaptable modular design.
• All vessels include accommodations for women officers and sailors, reflecting the Indian Navy's commitment to gender inclusion.

Strengthening Maritime Security

The induction of these combatants addresses strategic concerns in the IOR, where the Chinese navy and its support to Pakistan have altered the power balance. These ships enhance India's ability to protect its interests, safeguard trade routes, and maintain regional stability.

Implications for India's Global Ambitions

By commissioning state-of-the-art ships with advanced technology and indigenous components, India positions itself as a leader in global maritime security and defence manufacturing. This progress aligns with India's long-term goal of becoming a dominant naval force in the IOR and beyond.

Maritime power is the cornerstone of a nation’s security and sovereignty; it safeguards the present and shapes the future.