**Indian Navy to Commission Advanced Stealth Frigates Udaygiri and Himgiri**
The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its maritime capabilities with the commissioning of the state-of-the-art Project 17A multi-mission stealth frigates, Udaygiri and Himgiri, at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam on August 26, 2025. The ceremony will be officiated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marking a significant milestone as it will be the first time two frontline surface combatants, built at different shipyards, are commissioned simultaneously. This event highlights the increasing strategic importance of India’s eastern seaboard.
Udaygiri and Himgiri are part of the Project 17 (Shivalik) class of frigates, featuring substantial advancements in design, stealth technology, weaponry, and sensor systems. These vessels are equipped to undertake a wide range of maritime missions in Blue Water conditions. Udaygiri was constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai, while Himgiri was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. Their commissioning showcases India’s growing shipbuilding capabilities and the collaboration between the nation’s leading defense shipyards.
Notably, Udaygiri is recognized as the fastest ship of her class to be delivered post-launch, thanks to the modular construction techniques employed by Indian shipyards. Both frigates are named after their predecessors, INS Udaygiri (F35) and INS Himgiri (F34), which served the nation for over three decades before their decommissioning.
Designed in-house by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB), Udaygiri represents a significant achievement as the 100th ship designed by the bureau, celebrating five decades of indigenous warship design. The frigates are equipped with modern Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion systems, an advanced Integrated Platform Management System, and a suite of cutting-edge weapons and sensors developed by Indian manufacturers. With approximately 75% indigenous content, supported by numerous local MSMEs, these ships align with the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defense manufacturing.
The commissioning of Udaygiri and Himgiri will bolster the Navy’s combat readiness and reaffirm India’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in warship design and construction. Once commissioned, these frigates will join the Eastern Fleet, enhancing India’s capacity to protect its maritime interests across the Indian Ocean Region.
**FAQ**
*What are the key features of the Udaygiri and Himgiri frigates?*
Udaygiri and Himgiri are advanced stealth frigates featuring enhanced design, stealth capabilities, modern weaponry, and sensor systems, enabling them to perform a wide range of maritime missions effectively.
