INS Udaygiri, the second stealth frigate under Project 17A, was formally delivered to the Indian Navy on July 1, 2025. Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, the frigate represents the latest leap in India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and naval strength.
Project 17A is a follow-on to the Shivalik-class (Project 17) frigates and includes seven multi-mission warships under construction at MDL and GRSE, Kolkata. These stealth frigates are built for operations in blue-water environments and are equipped to handle both conventional and asymmetric threats.
The new Udaygiri is a modern reincarnation of the erstwhile INS Udaygiri—a steam-powered vessel that served the nation for over three decades before being decommissioned in 2007. The new ship boasts cutting-edge stealth features, state-of-the-art weapons, and sensors, and was delivered in a record time of just 37 months from launch.
With an enhanced hull that is over 4.5% larger than its predecessor, Udaygiri is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system that includes both diesel engines and gas turbines. The ship uses a Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) system and features a fully integrated platform management system for superior efficiency and control.
Its combat capabilities are formidable, featuring a suite of supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, a medium-range surface-to-air missile system, a 76 mm main gun, and close-in weapon systems of 30 mm and 12.7 mm calibers.
The frigate is a true symbol of Aatmanirbharta in defence manufacturing, with major weapons and electronics sourced from Indian OEMs. The project has supported more than 200 MSMEs and generated over 4,000 direct jobs and 10,000+ indirect jobs, making it a cornerstone of both national security and industrial growth.
The remaining five frigates under Project 17A are under various stages of construction and are expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.
Source: Press Information Bureau
