India’s First Nilgiri-Class Frigate P17A Begins Sea Trials

India’s naval capabilities have taken a significant step forward as the lead ship of the Nilgiri-class frigates, INS Nilgiri, commenced its first sea trials on August 25, 2024. This event marks a crucial phase in India’s Project 17A, aimed at modernizing the nation’s naval fleet. “India’s First Nilgiri-Class Frigate P17A Begins Sea Trials”.

Advancing Indian Naval Technology

The Nilgiri-class, an evolution of the Project 17 Shivalik-class frigates, represents a leap in India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. These vessels boast enhanced stealth features, improved survivability, and advanced manoeuvrability. Key improvements include:

Enhanced stealth technology Indigenous weapons and sensors integration Utilization of DMR 249A grade steel Improved sea keeping abilities.

Armament and Sensor Suite

The Nilgiri-class frigates are equipped with a formidable array of weapons and sensors:

BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles MRSAM (Medium Range Surface to Air Missiles) Indigenous Rocket Launcher (IRL) AK-630 CIWS Elta MFSTAR AESA primary radar Indra Lanza-N 3D surveillance radar.

Future upgrades may include VL-SRSAM and LRLACM, further enhancing their combat capabilities.

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Project Scale and Impact

Seven Nilgiri-class frigates are planned, with four being built by Mazagon Docks Limited (MDL) and three by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE). This project signifies India’s push towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing, with increased indigenous content in each vessel.

The induction of these ships is expected to significantly boost the Indian Navy’s high-end combatant strength. With the potential follow-on Project 17B, India aims to further bridge the gap between current and next-generation warships.

Specifications and Performance

Length: 149 m Breadth: 17.8 m Draught: 5.22 m Displacement: 6,673 tons Speed: 28 knots Propulsion: CODOG with two LM2500 gas turbines Range: 5,500 nautical miles at 16 knots Crew: 226 sailors

Looking Ahead

As India continues to strengthen its naval capabilities, the Nilgiri-class frigates represent a crucial step towards reduced dependency on imports. With all seven ships expected to be commissioned by 2027, they will play a vital role in India’s maritime strategy and defense posture in the coming decades.

The successful sea trials of INS Nilgiri not only showcase India’s growing naval prowess but also highlight the nation’s commitment to indigenous defense production and technological advancement.

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