VISAKHAPATNAM – The Indian Navy today formally commissioned INS Taragiri, the fourth stealth frigate of the potent Project 17A class, denoting a significant milestone for India’s maritime defense and indigenous shipbuilding. The Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam hosted the ceremony, and Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh presided, opening a new chapter in India’s quest for naval self-reliance.
A Masterclass in Stealth and Power
Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), INS Taragiri is a 6,670-tonne behemoth engineered for multi-role operations. The vessel uses advanced stealth technology to reduce its radar signature. This enables it to operate with lethal efficiency in contested waters.
A Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system and an Integrated Platform Management System enable the frigate to achieve high-speed transits and sustain long-endurance deployments. It’s formidable combat punch includes Supersonic BrahMos surface-to-surface missiles, advanced Surface-to-Air missile systems, and indigenous Anti-Submarine warfare suite, and modern radar and sonar for comprehensive 360-degree situational awareness.
A Symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Addressing the gathering, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh described the ship as more than just a military asset. “INS Taragiri is a symbol of India’s growing technological prowess and formidable naval power,” he stated.
The Minister highlighted that the ship contains over 75% indigenous content and relies on a network of over 200 MSMEs. He stated that India’s defense exports hit an all-time high of ₹38,424 crore in the 2025-26 financial year, a staggering leap from ₹1,200 crore 14 years ago.
“Today, we are no longer confined to fulfilling our own requirements; we are actively securing our place within the global supply chain. India is now a premier builder of complex warships,” said Shri Rajnath Singh.
Strategic Imperatives: Securing the Blue Economy
With 95% of India’s trade moving via maritime routes and the coastline stretching over 11,000 kilometers, Singh emphasizes that India absolutely needs a strong Navy. He also highlights how the digital era makes undersea internet cables vulnerable. Singh calls for a future-ready framework to protect both physical sea lanes and digital infrastructure.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi recalled the legacy of the original Leander-class Taragiri (1980). He noted that the new avatar is primed to tackle the complexities of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), including piracy and high-intensity combat.
Regional Stability and the MAHASAGAR Vision
The commissioning of INS Taragiri sends a clear geopolitical signal across the Indo-Pacific. As the vessel joins the Eastern Fleet, it reinforces India’s role as a first responder and a stabilizing force. This aligns with the MAHASAGAR vision.
The event ended with the ceremonial breaking of the Commissioning Pennant. The maiden hoisting of the National Flag on the ship’s deck followed. Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan and other top military dignitaries witnessed the occasion.
