Central Idea

President’s launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the final vessel in the Project 17A (Alpha) frigates series, marked a significant milestone for India’s maritime strength and self-reliance.
The launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the sixth vessel in the Project 17A Frigates series, carries forward India’s naval legacy.

About INS Vindhyagiri

INS Vindhyagiri is the sixth ship of the Project 17A Frigates series, showcasing India’s commitment to indigenous defense technology and self-reliance.
After INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri, INS Vindhyagiri derives its name from a mountain range in Karnataka.
These frigates are a follow-on class of the Project 17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates, integrating improved stealth, advanced weapons, and cutting-edge sensors.
It is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India.

Employs a cutting-edge propulsion system enabling speeds of over 28 knots, ensuring rapid response and agility in various operational scenarios.
Equipped with state-of-the-art stealth features, enhancing its ability to operate discreetly and minimize detection.
Over 75% of the equipment and systems used are sourced from indigenous firms, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Project 17 Alpha frigates (P-17A) were launched by the Indian Navy in 2019.
The first stealth ship launched was the Nilgiri, launched in 2019.
The project was launched to construct a series of stealth guided-missile frigates, which are currently being constructed by two companies:

These guided-missile frigates have been constructed with a specific stealth design, which has radar-absorbent coatings and is low-observable which can make its approach undetectable for the enemies.
The new technology also reduces the infrared signals of the ship.