In a significant enhancement of India’s naval capabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday commissioned three indigenous naval vessels — INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer — at a ceremony held at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
This marks the first time a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine have been commissioned together, underscoring India’s growing defence ambitions.

“A destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine commissioned together for the first time; all three are Made in India,” PM Modi said, highlighting the country’s increasing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Prime Minister Modi, during his address, also underscored the importance of protecting territorial waters, ensuring freedom of navigation, and securing trade routes. “India is working for development, not expansionism,” he said, stressing that that the country seeks to become a global partner in safeguarding the seas from the threats of drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism.
A destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine have been commissioned together for the first time.
The Prime Minister also pointed to India’s expanding role in the global defence sector, noting that the country is now exporting military equipment to over 100 countries. During his tenure, 33 ships and seven submarines have been inducted into the Indian Navy. “India is being recognized as a reliable and responsible partner, particularly in the Global South,” he added.
Prime Minister pointed out India’s expanding role in the global defence sector, noting that the country is now exporting military equipment to over 100 countries.
Among the vessels commissioned, INS Surat and INS Nilgiri are warships, while INS Vaghsheer is a submarine. According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), INS Surat is the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, and ranks among the world’s most sophisticated destroyers. With 75 percent indigenous content, the vessel is equipped with advanced network-centric capabilities and state-of-the-art weapon-sensor systems.
INS Nilgiri, the first ship of the P17A Stealth Frigate Project, has been designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, incorporating features aimed at enhanced survivability and stealth. Meanwhile, INS Vaghsheer, the sixth and final submarine of the P75 Scorpene Project, was built in collaboration with France’s Naval Group, reflecting India’s growing defense partnerships.
Discover the Benefits of Our Subscription!
Stay informed with access to our award-winning journalism.
Avoid misinformation with trusted, accurate reporting.
Make smarter decisions with insights that matter.
Choose your subscription package