The combined commissioning demonstrates India’s unparalleled progress in defence self-reliance and indigenous shipbuilding
Two frontline warships - Nilgiri and Surat - and a submarine - Vagsheer- are set to be commissioned on January 15, 2025 in what would be a red letter day for the Indian Navy. Nilgiri is from the stealth frigate class while Surat is the stealth destroyer class. Vagsheer is the sixth and final submarine of the Scorpene-class project.

All three vessels have undergone rigorous trials, including machinery, hull, fire-fighting, and damage control assessments, as well as proving all navigation and communication systems at sea, making them fully operational and ready for deployment.

“The combined commissioning of Nilgiri, Surat, and Vagsheer demonstrates India’s unparalleled progress in defense self-reliance and indigenous shipbuilding,” the Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Wednesday (January 1, 2025). 

Seamless Operations Under all Conditions
Nilgiri is the lead ship of Project 17A. It is being described as a major advancement over the Shivalik-class frigates, incorporating significant stealth features and reduced radar signatures through state-of-the-art technology. On the other hand, Surat is a Project 15B destroyer. It is the culmination of the follow-on class to the Kolkata-class (Project 15A) destroyers, featuring substantial improvements in design and capabilities. 

Incidentally, both the ships were designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau. They are equipped with advanced sensors and weapon packages developed primarily in India or through strategic collaborations with leading global manufacturers.

According to information shared by the Ministry of Defence, Nilgiri and Surat are equipped with modern aviation facilities. They can operate a range of helicopters, including Chetak, ALH, Sea King, and the newly-inducted MH-60R, during both day and night operations. 

Features such as a Rail-Less Helicopter Traversing System and a Visual Aid and Landing System ensure seamless operations under all conditions. “These ships also include specific accommodations to support a sizeable complement of women officers and sailors, aligning with the Navy’s progressive steps toward gender inclusion in frontline combat roles,” the Ministry of Defence said.

Versatile Diesel-Electric Submarine
Vagsheer is the sixth Scorpene-class submarine under the Kalvari-class Project 75. It is regarded as one of the most silent and versatile diesel-electric submarines in the world. According to the Ministry of Defence, it is designed to undertake a wide range of missions, including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, area surveillance, and special operations. 

Armed with wire-guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems, the submarine also features modular construction, allowing for future upgrades such as the integration of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology.

“This historic occasion not only enhances the Navy’s maritime strength but also symbolizes the nation’s remarkable achievements in defense manufacturing and self-reliance. It is a proud moment for the Indian Navy and the nation as a whole, further reinforcing India’s commitment to building a robust and self-sufficient defense ecosystem,” the Ministry of Defence stated.