Indian Navy Inducts Indigenous Stealth Frigate INS Dunagiri, Advancing Project 17A

The Indian Navy has made a significant advancement in its indigenous warship construction efforts with the delivery of the stealth frigate INS Dunagiri. This fifth ship of the Nilgiri-class, part of Project 17A, was handed over on March 30, 2026, at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited. The latest addition exemplifies India's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

A New Generation Stealth Warship

INS Dunagiri (Yard 3023) is the second Project 17A frigate constructed at GRSE. This vessel represents a substantial step forward in indigenous naval design, featuring advancements in stealth technology, combat capability, and automation and survivability.

The ship revives the legacy of its predecessor, the earlier INS Dunagiri, a Leander-class frigate that was in service from 1977 until 2010.

Advanced Design and Capabilities

Created by the Warship Design Bureau, the Project 17A frigates are designed as multi-mission platforms, capable of tackling both current and future maritime threats.

The frigate boasts significant features including a CODOG propulsion system (Combined Diesel or Gas), controllable pitch propellers (CPP), and an integrated platform management system (IPMS).

Powerful Weapons and Sensors

INS Dunagiri is outfitted with a modern combat suite, which includes BrahMos surface-to-surface missiles, MF-STAR radar and MRSAM air defense systems, a 76 mm Super Rapid Gun Mount, close-in weapon systems of 30 mm and 12.7 mm, and anti-submarine warfare systems featuring rockets and torpedoes.

Faster Construction and Indigenous Strength

The construction of the frigate was completed in 80 months, demonstrating greater efficiency compared to the first class ship, INS Nilgiri, which took 93 months. This improvement highlights the enhanced capability in indigenous shipbuilding.

The project achieved a 75% indigenization level, engaging more than 200 MSMEs, creating employment for approximately 4,000 personnel directly, and supporting over 10,000 indirect jobs.

Strategic Significance

The delivery of INS Dunagiri marks the fifth Project 17A ship delivered within the last 16 months, illustrating India's increasing proficiency in constructing advanced warships.

Conclusion

The induction of INS Dunagiri signifies a crucial step in enhancing India's naval prowess. It aligns with the Indian Navy's focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat, showcasing the nation's capabilities in design, engineering, and shipbuilding excellence.