The Indian Navy has taken delivery of multiple domestically manufactured vessels, highlighting major milestones in indigenous shipbuilding and advancing its drive toward defense self-reliance. These additions come from key programs, including the Mahe- and Arnala-class ASW shallow water craft, the Nilgiri-class guided missile frigates, and the Sandhayak-class survey vessels.
The developments also feature the commissioning of another Nilgiri-class frigate and the unveiling of the first vessel in the Shachi-class offshore patrol vessel series.
As part of the ASW SWC program, INS Malwan (P81), the second Mahe-class corvette constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited, was delivered in Kochi. Concurrently, GRSE handed over INS Agray (P36), the fifth Arnala-class vessel, in Kolkata. Measuring 78 meters, these vessels are optimized for underwater surveillance, coastal anti-submarine operations, mine warfare, and low-intensity engagements. They feature waterjet propulsion and are armed with lightweight torpedoes, rocket systems, mines, naval guns, and shallow-water sonar to address both surface and underwater threats. The program, launched in 2020, aims to produce up to 16 ships by 2030.
In parallel, the navy inducted INS Dunagiri (F36), the fifth Nilgiri-class frigate built by GRSE, achieving a reduced construction timeline of 80 months compared to 93 months for the lead ship. Another frigate, INS Taragiri (F41), was also commissioned in Visakhapatnam. These 149-meter warships are equipped with advanced systems such as BrahMos missiles, heavy artillery, and comprehensive anti-air and anti-submarine capabilities. Initiated in 2015, the Nilgiri-class program plans for a total of seven vessels.
The navy further strengthened its survey capabilities with the induction of INS Sanshodhak (J24), completing the four-ship Sandhayak-class program. This 110-meter vessel is designed for hydrographic surveys and oceanographic research using autonomous and remotely operated technologies.
Additionally, Goa Shipyard Limited launched INS Shachi, the first of 11 next-generation offshore patrol vessels. These ships are intended for surveillance, search and rescue, anti-piracy, and humanitarian operations, and will feature naval guns, mines, and short-range air defense systems. The program, initially conceptualized in 2017 and approved in 2023 after supply chain adjustments, has already seen more than half of its vessels enter construction, with deliveries expected to commence in the third quarter of 2026.
