INS Nilgiri joins Eastern Naval Command boosting India’s maritime strength

Marking a significant milestone in India’s maritime defence capabilities, INS Nilgiri, the first of the indigenously-built Project 17A stealth frigates, has officially joined the Eastern Naval Command. The advanced warship is set to play a key role in the Indian Navy’s Eastern Sword Sunrise Fleet, enhancing India’s presence and operational reach in the Bay of Bengal and beyond.

Constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, INS Nilgiri represents a new generation of stealth frigates equipped with cutting-edge sensors, weapons, and advanced stealth features. Designed to operate in a network-centric environment, the ship is tailored for multi-dimensional warfare, surface, sub-surface, and aerial.

Driven by her inspiring motto, ‘Adrish Yabalam, Ajeya Shauryam’ (Invisible Power, Invincible Bravery), INS Nilgiri embodies the spirit of modern naval warfare and indigenous technological prowess.

The ship's induction is a major boost to India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative in the defence sector. As more ships of the Project 17A class join service in the coming years, the distinctive silhouette of these stealth frigates is expected to become a regular presence along India’s eastern seaboard.

INS Nilgiri’s deployment underscores the Indian Navy’s focus on strengthening maritime security in the Indo-Pacific and safeguarding national interests in the region.