MUMBAI, Jan 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Wednesday that India is emerging as a prominent maritime power and is being acknowledged as a trustworthy and responsible partner globally.
Modi made these remarks following the commissioning of three naval warships in the city, highlighting India’s commitment to an open, secure, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
For the first time, a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine were commissioned simultaneously, all proudly labeled as ‘Made in India’.
He emphasized that the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative has fortified India’s self-reliance.
“We must serve as a global ally in combating threats at sea such as drugs, weapons, and terrorism, ensuring maritime safety and prosperity. India is being recognized as a major maritime power and a dependable partner,” he stated.
In the Indian Ocean region, India has positioned itself as the “first responder,” Modi pointed out.
He further mentioned India’s potential to influence global security, economy, and geopolitical landscapes significantly.
“Safeguarding territorial waters, ensuring freedom of navigation, and securing trade routes is paramount,” he added.
Modi also clarified that India is focused on development rather than expansionism.
He highlighted that over the past decade, the Navy has welcomed 33 ships and seven submarines into its ranks.
Defence production in India has surged past Rs 1.25 lakh crore, with military equipment now being exported to over 100 nations, he noted.
This morning, the Indian Navy commissioned warships INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer at the Naval Dockyard with PM Modi in attendance.
INS Nilgiri, the lead vessel of the Project 17A stealth frigate class, showcases considerable advancements compared to the Shivalik-class destroyers.
Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), it features cutting-edge technologies for improved survivability, seakeeping, and stealth, marking a new era for indigenous frigates.
Equipped with advanced stealth capabilities and reduced radar visibility, it also accommodates modern aviation facilities, enabling operations with a variety of helicopters, including the newly integrated MH-60R.
INS Surat, the last vessel of the Project 15B stealth destroyer class, serves as a continuation of the Kolkata-class destroyers, boasting enhancements in its design and operational capabilities, thus becoming a vital part of the Navy’s surface fleet.
Similarly, INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final submarine in the Scorpene-class Project 75. This diesel-electric submarine is built for various missions, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, as well as intelligence operations.
It features modular construction, allowing for future enhancements like air independent propulsion technology. (PTI)
