Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenously designed and built naval ships in Kolkata on June 21, 2024 [1], [2].
The addition of these vessels marks a significant step in India's push for maritime self-reliance. By reducing dependence on foreign shipyards, the government aims to secure its coastlines while fostering a domestic defense industrial base.
The three vessels include the INS Dunagiri, an advanced stealth frigate, the INS Sanshodhak, a large survey vessel, and the INS Agray, an anti-submarine warfare shallow-water craft [1], [2], [3]. These platforms were developed through domestic design and construction processes to enhance the operational reach of the Eastern Naval Command [1], [2].
Modi said that the commissioning of these three [1] platforms is intended to strengthen India’s maritime defense. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the nation's strategic and economic influence in the region.
According to government objectives, the move links national development, security, and prosperity directly to the sea [1], [4]. The integration of these specific ship types, stealth, survey, and anti-submarine, allows the navy to conduct a wider variety of missions, from deep-sea mapping to littoral combat operations.
The ceremony in Kolkata highlighted the role of indigenous shipbuilding in achieving long-term security goals. The deployment of these ships is expected to increase surveillance and response capabilities in the Indian Ocean region.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenously designed and built naval ships.”
The commissioning of the INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, and INS Agray reflects India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) policy applied to naval warfare. By diversifying its fleet with specialized stealth and anti-submarine capabilities produced domestically, India is positioning itself to counter regional maritime challenges without relying on external suppliers for critical hardware.
