By Aritra Banerjee
India is entering a pivotal chapter in its naval history. On January 15, 2025, the Indian Navy will mark an unparalleled achievement by commissioning three state-of-the-art combat platforms simultaneously—Nilgiri, Surat, and Vagsheer. These vessels not only reflect technological progress but also signify a significant stride toward India’s strategic autonomy. Furthermore, they underscore India’s burgeoning role in shaping the security framework of the Indo-Pacific region.
The journey of indigenous warship manufacturing in India commenced in the 1960s with the introduction of INS Ajay, an anti-submarine warfare patrol boat crafted by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE). The 1970s represented a critical turning point with the launch of the Nilgiri-class frigates, marking India’s foray into sophisticated warship construction. Over subsequent decades, capabilities expanded with the addition of Delhi-class destroyers in the 1990s, leading to today’s advanced Visakhapatnam-class destroyers and Scorpene-class submarines.
The commissioning of Nilgiri (Project 17A stealth frigate), Surat (Project 15B stealth destroyer), and Vagsheer (Scorpene-class submarine under Project 75) is a testament to the rapid evolution of India’s shipbuilding capabilities. These vessels, constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), exemplify the advancements made by India’s Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs).
The Indian Navy has played a crucial role in promoting indigenisation, fostering a robust ecosystem that involves domestic shipbuilders, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and private sectors. More than 75% of its procurement budget is directed toward local industries, reinforcing the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
DPSUs such as MDL, GRSE, and Cochin Shipyard, along with private firms like Larsen & Toubro (L&T), have been instrumental in this transformation. Notably, MDL’s simultaneous delivery of INS Surat and INS Nilgiri showcases the capabilities and efficiency of Indian shipbuilders.
MSMEs play a vital role by providing essential components and systems that support a dynamic supply chain. Policy frameworks like the Positive Indigenisation List have expedited the development of strategically important defence technologies. Initiatives such as the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) further enhance this ecosystem, spurring innovation and collaborative efforts.
The newly inducted platforms illustrate India’s technological advancement: Nilgiri boasts stealth technology, cutting-edge sensors, and helicopter deployment capabilities, enhancing India’s surface combat readiness; Surat is outfitted with next-gen weapon systems and advanced air defence features, specially designed for high-intensity combat; Vagsheer, the sixth Scorpene-class submarine, emerges as a formidable underwater vessel equipped with advanced sonar, torpedoes, and anti-ship missiles.
These platforms bolster India’s ability to safeguard crucial sea routes, project power throughout the Indo-Pacific, and deter threats from both state and non-state actors. Their versatile operational capabilities reinforce India’s role as a net security provider in an increasingly competitive maritime environment.
The defence shipbuilding industry offers extensive economic advantages, generating employment, fostering ancillary sectors, and driving innovation. For instance, over 120 MSMEs contributed to the development of Diving Support Vessels Nistar and Nipun, while MDL’s projects engage a broad network of suppliers, positively impacting regional economies.
The government’s Maritime Development Fund, worth ₹25,000 crore, aims to further strengthen the shipbuilding industry, promote technological advancements, and create avenues for public-private partnerships. This investment is anticipated to have a significant multiplier effect on India’s economic growth, enhancing workforce skills and industrial capabilities.
India’s indigenisation efforts are positioning the nation as an emerging defence exporter. Homegrown platforms and components are gaining recognition in markets across Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, with examples such as patrol vessels and advanced electronic systems supplied to allied nations.
The Draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) 2020 sets a target of achieving ₹35,000 crore in defence exports by 2025. These exports are pivotal in solidifying strategic partnerships and enhancing India’s global influence through defence cooperation.
Despite substantial progress, challenges persist. India’s shipbuilding output falls short compared to other nations like China, which produces an average of 20 warships annually. Bridging this gap necessitates the development of a resilient industrial base for maritime heavy machinery.
To address these challenges, the Navy and government are focusing on: promoting public-private partnerships, simplifying procurement processes, investing in R&D and workforce development, and enhancing the competitiveness of domestic shipyards by integrating best practices and technology transfers from global sources.
Stronger collaborations between academia, industry, and defence forces are essential to ensure a continuous flow of talent and innovation, further enhancing India’s naval capabilities.
The commissioning of Nilgiri, Surat, and Vagsheer transcends technological milestones; it symbolizes India’s strategic independence and maritime strength. These platforms not only elevate India’s naval prowess but also reflect economic and industrial growth.
As the Indian Navy advances its indigenisation and defence export initiatives, it solidifies India’s position as a global leader in maritime security and defence innovation. With a growing fleet of indigenous warships, expanding export markets, and strategic collaborations, India’s ascent in naval power is poised to redefine the security landscape of the Indo-Pacific and beyond. (IPA Service)
