NEW DELHI : To add strength to the country’s naval power, the Indian Navy is set to commission indigenous stealth frigate Mahendragiri (F38) at Visakhapatnam on Saturday.Named after the majestic Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats, the frigate embodies resilience, strength and unwavering resolve, the Navy said in a statement. Designed in-house by the Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai, Mahendragiri, the sixth ship of the Project 17A class of stealth frigates, exemplifies India’s growing expertise in indigenous warship design and construction.The frigate is equipped with an advanced suite of indigenous and state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems, sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities, comprehensive anti-submarine warfare systems and an integrated combat management system.Armed with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, it can engage enemy ships and land targets from a long range. Equipped with the Barak-8 surface-to-air missile system, it will also be able to counter hostile aircraft, drones and incoming missiles.Beyond the missiles, the warship is fitted with advanced torpedoes, rocket launchers and the AK-630 close-in weapon system for comprehensive anti-submarine and close-range defence capabilities. It also possesses powerful MF-STAR AESA radar for early threat detection and tracking, alongside the capacity to operate naval helicopters such as a HAL Dhruv or Sea King.Incorporating advanced stealth features, enhanced survivability, reduced radar signature and a high degree of automation, the frigate is powered by a modern combined diesel or gas propulsion system, enabling high-speed operations with exceptional endurance across the full spectrum of maritime missions.With over 75% indigenous content, Mahendragiri exemplifies the govt’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Her construction has brought together a vast network of Indian industries, including numerous MSMEs, generating employment while strengthening the nation’s defence industrial base.The commissioning of Mahendragiri marks another significant milestone in the successful execution of the Project 17A programme. As India continues to strengthen its role as the preferred security partner in the Indian Ocean Region, Mahendragiri will serve as a formidable force multiplier, safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and contributing to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, the Navy said.As the Indian Navy continues to strengthen its maritime capabilities through indigenous warships, Mahendragiri , as a Mission Primed unit, stands ready to serve the nation with distinction, living up to her motto, “Mighty–Majestic–Matchles”.
