Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially commissioned three important naval warships — INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer — at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on Wednesday, January 15. This event was a major milestone in India's maritime history and showcased the country's dedication to achieving self-reliance in defence.

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Modi called the moment crucial for India's maritime heritage and the Navy's future. “Today is a very big day for India's maritime heritage, the glorious history of the Navy, and the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.' Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had given new strength and a new vision to the Indian Navy. Today, on his holy land, we are taking a very big step towards strengthening the Navy of the 21st century. This is the first time when a destroyer, a frigate and a submarine, all three, are being commissioned together," said PM Modi. 

The Prime Minister further said, "India has also emerged as the first responder across the entire Indian Ocean Region. In recent months, our Navy has saved hundreds of lives and safeguarded national and international cargo worth thousands of crores of rupees. This has enhanced the world's trust in India, a trust built because of your efforts. Confidence in the Indian Navy and Coast Guard continues to grow steadily. Today, it is evident that India's economic cooperation is strengthening with ASEAN, Australia, Gulf nations, and African countries." The launch of these vessels demonstrates India's advancements in maritime security and defence production, which is consistent with its aim of becoming a world leader in this realm.   

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also praised the commissioning as a historic accomplishment in his remarks. “The commissioning of INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer is a testament not just to the Indian Navy but also to India’s growing strength in the Indian Ocean Region. The importance of this region, both strategically and economically, has become even more pronounced in today’s rapidly evolving global scenario,” he said. Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, the Navy Chief, emphasised the importance of these vessels in terms of operations.

He said, “INS Surat continues the proud tradition of Projects 15A and 15B destroyers, Nilgiri is the first of the Project 17A frigates, and Vaghsheer is the final submarine under Project 75. These platforms will bolster the Navy's operational capabilities, ensuring the security of our maritime interests and advancing the Prime Minister’s vision of SAGAR — Security and Growth for All in the Region.” 

INS Surat, the last vessel built under the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, is one of the largest and most advanced destroyers in the world. It is made with 75% Indian components and features cutting-edge weapons, sensors, and modern network-based capabilities. Meanwhile, The first ship of the P17A Stealth Frigate Project, INS Nilgiri, was created by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau. It features advanced technology to improve stealth, survivability, and efficiency in operations. On the other hand, INS Vaghsheer, the final submarine of the P75 Scorpene Project, showcases India's increasing expertise in designing and building submarines. Developed in collaboration with France's Naval Group, it strengthens the Navy's ability to perform undersea warfare.