India will now become stronger in the sea! Indigenous stealth frigate Mahendragiri joins Navy, know what is its specialty

New Delhi: India has achieved another major achievement in the field of maritime security. Now the state-of-the-art indigenous stealth frigate Mahendragiri (F38) has also been included in the Indian Navy’s fleet. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh dedicated this modern warship to the nation during a special ceremony held in Visakhapatnam on 11 July 2026.

On this occasion, many senior officers including Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan were present. With the induction of Mahendragiri, there will be a significant increase in the maritime security capability, surveillance and combat power of the Indian Navy. Especially in the Indian Ocean region, India’s strategic presence is now considered stronger than before.

Mahendragiri is an important part of Project-17A.

Mahendragiri has been constructed under the ambitious Project-17A plan of the Indian Navy. This project is an upgraded version of the already existing Shivalik class warships. Modern technology, better stealth capability, state-of-the-art sensors and advanced weapon systems have been included in the new frigate. A total of seven stealth frigates are being built under this project. They are being built by the country’s leading shipbuilding companies Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE).

Why was it named ‘Mahendragiri’?

This warship has been named after the famous Mahendragiri mountain range of the Eastern Ghats. This mountain is considered a symbol of courage, perseverance and unwavering determination. For the first time in the history of the Indian Navy, a warship has been named Mahendragiri, which increases its cultural and national importance.

Completely indigenous design and manufacturing

Mahendragiri has been designed by the Warship Design Bureau of the Indian Navy, while it has been constructed by Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. This is the sixth stealth frigate of Project-17A and is considered a strong example of India’s self-reliant defense capability. The technology and manufacturing process used in this warship shows that India is now becoming increasingly self-reliant in the design and construction of modern warships.

More than 75 percent indigenous technology

One of the biggest features of Mahendragiri is its indigenous technology. More than 75 percent of the equipment and material in this warship has been developed or manufactured in India. Along with many big defense companies of the country, a large number of micro, small and medium industries (MSME) have also contributed in its construction. This not only boosted defense production but also created new employment opportunities.

Challenge to the enemy with stealth technology

Mahendragiri has been designed on the basis of modern stealth technology. Due to its special design, it is very difficult to identify it on enemy radar. Low radar signature, advanced automation and modern security systems make it more effective during combat. This is the reason why this warship is able to successfully carry out its mission while avoiding the eyes of the enemy.

long range expedition capability

Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system has been installed in this warship. This technology gives the ship the ability to operate continuously at sea for long distances at high speed. With its help, Mahendragiri can remain active for a long time in various maritime operations and can change its deployment rapidly if needed.

State-of-the-art weapons and modern sensors

Mahendragiri has been equipped with many modern weapon systems and advanced sensors. This includes surface-to-surface missiles, surface-to-air missiles, anti-submarine weapons, electronic warfare systems and integrated combat management systems. With the help of all these systems, this warship is capable of simultaneously countering air, sea and underwater threats. This will significantly increase the combat capability of the Indian Navy.

Mahendragiri will not be limited to war operations only. It will also be used in important missions like maritime security, search and rescue operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations and maritime surveillance. In case of natural disasters or maritime distress, this warship will be able to play an important role in providing rapid relief and ensuring the safety of civilians.

India’s power in the Indian Ocean will become stronger

The country’s maritime security is continuously getting strengthened with the induction of modern warships one by one into the Indian Navy. The induction of Mahendragiri is not limited to just getting a new warship, but it is also a symbol of India’s defense self-reliance and modern naval capability. Experts believe that this frigate will further strengthen India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region. Besides, its role is also going to be very important in security of maritime trade routes, regional stability and protection of national interests.