In News:

INS Nilgiri, the first stealth frigate of the indigenously developed Project 17A series, has recently been inducted into the Eastern Naval Command. It will play a crucial role in the Eastern Sword-Sunrise Fleet.

Key Facts:

• Class and Design:INS Nilgiri belongs to the Nilgiri-class frigates under Project 17A, an advanced stealth warship initiative. It is an improved version of the earlier Shivalik-class (Project 17) frigates.
• Design and Construction:The vessel has been designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai.
• Sister Ships Under Construction:Six other frigates of the same class—Himgiri, Taragiri, Udaygiri, Dunagiri, Vindhyagiri, and Mahendragiri—are currently being built at MDL, Mumbai and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

Technical Specifications & Capabilities:

• Dimensions & Displacement:
  • Length: 149 meters
  • Displacement: Approximately 6,670 tonnes
• Propulsion:
  • Equipped with a CODAG (Combined Diesel and Gas) propulsion system
  • Maximum speed: Up to 28 knots
• Combat Capability:
  • Anti-Air Warfare: Armed with 16 Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles
  • Surface Warfare: Equipped with 8 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for anti-ship and land-attack roles
• Surveillance & Targeting Systems:
  • MF-STAR Radar: Offers 360-degree situational awareness
  • 3D AESA Radar: Enables tracking of multiple targets simultaneously
  • Nishant Radar: Enhances fire control and targeting precision
• Network-Centric Warfare:The onboard Combat Management System (CMS) seamlessly integrates various sensors and weapons, allowing for coordinated operations with other naval platforms.

Significance:
The induction of INS Nilgiri marks a major milestone in India’s pursuit of a modern, self-reliant naval fleet. It enhances the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities, contributing to maritime dominance and regional security in the Indo-Pacific.