The Indian Navy today commissioned INS Mahendragiri, an advanced stealth frigate built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), marking another major milestone in India’s indigenous warship construction programme. The commissioning ceremony was held at Visakhapatnam in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, underscoring the country’s continued focus on strengthening domestic defence manufacturing and enhancing maritime security.
Built under Project 17A, INS Mahendragiri is the fourth Nilgiri-class stealth frigate constructed by MDL. The warship reflects the growing capabilities of India’s defence shipbuilding ecosystem, with the basic design developed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and the detailed design and construction carried out by MDL. Throughout the project, the Warship Overseeing Team (Mumbai) ensured adherence to stringent quality and performance standards.
Measuring 149 metres in length with a beam of 17.8 metres and a displacement of nearly 6,400 tonnes, INS Mahendragiri is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system comprising two gas turbines and two main diesel engines. The propulsion system enables the frigate to achieve speeds exceeding 28 knots while delivering operational flexibility across diverse maritime missions.
The vessel integrates advanced stealth features, sophisticated sensors, automated systems and modern weapon platforms, significantly enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capability. Its induction is expected to strengthen surveillance, fleet operations and maritime security across the Indian Ocean Region while expanding the Navy’s ability to respond effectively to evolving security challenges.
INS Mahendragiri also represents a significant achievement in shipbuilding efficiency. Under the Project 17A programme, MDL reduced the construction timeline by 21 per cent compared to the first ship of the class. Through close coordination between MDL, the Indian Navy and the Warship Overseeing Team, the ship successfully completed Sea Trials and Final Machinery Trials within two months of Basin Trials, demonstrating high levels of project execution and technical integration.
Over the past 16 months, MDL has delivered five warships and one submarine to the Indian Navy, reflecting its growing capacity to execute complex naval programmes within demanding timelines. Major combat systems, including BrahMos, SRGM, AK-630, Kavach and associated mission-critical equipment, were fully integrated and operational before delivery through close collaboration with the Navy and domestic industry partners.
With nearly 75 per cent indigenous content, INS Mahendragiri highlights India’s expanding expertise in warship design, construction and systems integration. The project brought together the capabilities of the Indian Navy, MDL and a wide network of Indian industries, including numerous MSMEs, contributing to technology development, skilled employment and the growth of the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
