India takes a big leap towards self-reliant naval power
Visakhapatnam: As India takes a big leap towards becoming the most potent self-reliant naval power, the latest and sleeker stealth frigate Taragiri (F41) was commissioned into the Indian Navy on Friday.
Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDSL), Mumbai and designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, the fourth platform of the Nilgiri class under Project 17A epitomises a generational leap over earlier designs and is endowed with several advanced stealth features.
With indigenous content exceeding 75 per cent, the ship is armed with supersonic BrahMos missiles, the MF-STAR radar system, MRSAM and Barak anti-aircraft missile systems, among several other advanced weapon systems. It comprises state-of-the-art technology to detect threats on the surface, subsurface, and in the air.
Powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion, the ‘reincarnated’ Taragiri is designed for high speed and endurance capabilities and can be deployed to undertake any mission, anywhere at any time.
Equipped with cutting-edge weapons and sensors, the ship can carry out the full spectrum of maritime operations. It inherits the ‘indomitable spirit’ of the Pallas’ Fish Eagle from her predecessor and is ever-ready to ‘rise above’ every challenge. At the commissioning ceremony organised in Visakhapatnam, defence minister Rajnath Singh stated that the government has created an ecosystem for the youth and the industry that consistently fosters innovation, manufacturing and exports. He stressed that India has no alternative but to pursue self-reliance in defence to stay ready in the present uncertain times. The defence minister pointed out that guided by that very vision, the government has taken several major policy decisions, the results of which are visible now.
Built in significantly reduced timelines, INS Taragiri epitomises India’s shipbuilding prowess and strong public-private collaboration.
The erstwhile Taragiri, the sixth ship of the Leander Class, was built indigenously in the late 1970s and commissioned on May 16, 1980. Upon commissioning, she became the first IN ship to embark Seaking Helicopters and undertook several major missions, including Operations Typhoon - A, Tuna, Jupiter, Trident and Tsunami relief in Sri Lanka.
After 33 years of committed service to the nation, the ship was decommissioned on June 27, 2013. A master class in modern naval shipbuilding, the reincarnated stealth frigate, with a displacement of approximately 6,670 tonnes, has been designed for multi-role operations. The warship utilises advanced stealth technology to achieve a significantly reduced radar signature, providing a lethal edge in contested environments.
Over 10,000 people were involved in building the ship. With a crew of 300 onboard, Taragiri stands tall as an embodiment of the ‘Make in India’ spirit and the sophisticated engineering capabilities of the indigenous shipyards.
