Basics
- What are frigates?
- Medium-sized warships, versatile for escort, patrol, anti-submarine, and surface warfare roles.
- Crucial for maintaining maritime security and projecting naval power.
- Project 17A:
- Follow-on of the Project 17 (Shivalik-class) stealth frigates.
- Envisages 7 stealth frigates, designed by the Warship Design Bureau (WDB).
- Key focus: stealth features, modular construction, advanced sensors and weapons, and high indigenous content.
- Shipbuilders involved:
- Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL), Mumbai – builder of Udaygiri.
- Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata – builder of Himgiri.
Relevance : GS 3(Defence , Internal Security)
Key Highlights of Commissioning
- First-ever simultaneous commissioning of two frontline warships built at different shipyards.
- Udaygiri is the 100th vessel designed by WDB, marking 50 years of indigenous design capability.
- Udaygiri was delivered faster due to modular construction techniques.
- Names Udaygiri and Himgiri revive the legacy of earlier Indian Navy warships.
- Both join the Eastern Fleet, enhancing presence in the Indian Ocean.
Technical Features
- Stealth Capabilities: Reduced radar, infrared, acoustic, and magnetic signatures.
- Propulsion: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) system.
- Combat Systems: Advanced weaponry and modern sensor suite for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.
- Automation: Integrated Platform Management System for efficient operations.
- Indigenisation: ~75% indigenous content, including Indian-made weapons and sensors, supported by MSMEs.
Strategic Significance
- Blue-Water Navy Expansion: Capable of sustained operations in distant waters, bolstering India’s regional and global maritime role.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Strengthens India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem.
- Inter-Yard Collaboration: Demonstrates coordination between MDL and GRSE, a milestone in India’s shipbuilding sector.
- Force Multiplier: Enhances India’s ability to safeguard Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs) and counter maritime threats in the Indian Ocean.
- Symbolic Continuity: Heritage revival through warship names reflects India’s naval traditions.
