Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday commissioned three “Made in India” naval combatants—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—into the Indian Navy, marking the first time a destroyer, frigate, and submarine have been commissioned together.
Addressing the ceremony, PM Modi emphasized India’s growing maritime capabilities and its recognition as a “reliable and responsible” nation in the Global South. He highlighted the nation’s maritime security strategy, noting that India champions development over expansionism and promotes the mantra of ‘SAGAR’—Security and Growth for All in the Region.
The Prime Minister underscored the significance of the commissioned combatants, tying them to India’s rich maritime heritage. He described INS Nilgiri as a tribute to the maritime strength of the Chola dynasty, while INS Surat reflects Gujarat’s historical trade connections with West Asia. INS Vaghsheer, a cutting-edge submarine, was celebrated for its role in enhancing India’s naval prowess.
“These new platforms will bolster India’s security and development, further establishing the nation as a key player in global maritime security,” PM Modi said. “India has always supported an open, secure, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.”
PM Modi lauded the Indian Navy for its role as the First Responder in the Indian Ocean Region, highlighting its efforts in saving lives and protecting cargo worth thousands of crores. He also noted the increasing trust in India’s maritime capabilities, as reflected in its deepening economic cooperation with ASEAN, Australia, the Gulf, and African nations.
“India believes in the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas and envisions the world as one family,” he said, referencing India’s global initiatives such as ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ and ‘One Earth, One Health.’ He reaffirmed India’s commitment to global security, economic development, and energy security, emphasizing the importance of protecting traditional and territorial waters.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s contributions to strengthening India’s maritime boundaries. He called the commissioning of these platforms a milestone for the Indian Navy’s 21st-century vision, tying the nation’s maritime heritage to its future aspirations.
Each combatant reflects India’s strides in defense manufacturing:
- INS Surat, a destroyer with 75% indigenous content, is equipped with advanced weapon-sensor systems and network-centric capabilities.
- INS Nilgiri, a frigate designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, incorporates next-generation features for survivability, seakeeping, and stealth.
- INS Vaghsheer, a submarine constructed in collaboration with France’s Naval Group, showcases India’s growing expertise in submarine construction.
PM Modi congratulated the Indian Navy and manufacturers involved in the creation of these vessels, hailing the event as a testament to India’s vision of becoming a global leader in defense manufacturing and maritime security.
“This is a historic day for the Indian Navy and our self-reliant campaign. Today’s commissioning strengthens India’s maritime capabilities and positions us as a major maritime power,” he concluded.
