INS Mahendragiri, Sixth Project 17A Stealth Frigate, Commissioned at Visakhapatnam
The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahendragiri (F38), the sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam on July 11, 2026. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the ceremony, which took place during his two-day visit to the Eastern Naval Command.
Designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, the frigate features over 75% indigenous content, in line with the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. The vessel is named after the Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats and is the first Indian Navy warship to bear this name.
INS Mahendragiri incorporates advanced stealth technology, reduced radar signatures, and a high degree of automation. It is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, enabling high-speed operations and extended endurance. The frigate is equipped with a range of weapons and sensors, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, electronic warfare systems, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. An integrated Combat Management System allows the ship to operate across multiple domains, from anti-air and anti-surface warfare to humanitarian assistance missions.
During the ceremony, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India's role as a key stakeholder in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), stating that the region is India's 'courtyard' and that securing it is a national responsibility. He highlighted the importance of maritime security for India's economic health, noting that over 90% of the country's trade by volume passes through sea routes. Singh also cautioned about the evolving nature of warfare and urged personnel to remain prepared for future challenges.
The commissioning of INS Mahendragiri marks a significant milestone in India's naval modernization and indigenous defence production efforts. The frigate is expected to enhance the Indian Navy's operational capabilities in the Indian Ocean and beyond.
