The Navy stated that the commissioning of Mahendragiri marks another significant milestone in the successful execution of the Project 17A programme.
Sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate ‘Mahendragiri,’ equipped with enhanced stealth features such as reduced radar signature and a high degree of automation, will be commissioned into Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam on Friday.The frigate is empowered with an advanced suite of indigenous and state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems, sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities, comprehensive anti-submarine warfare systems and an integrated Combat Management System, a Navy spokesperson said on Monday.Capable of undertaking anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine operations, Mahendragiri is equally suited for maritime security, power projection, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), search and rescue, and sustained presence missions, he stated.Other than advanced stealth features, like enhanced survivability, reduced radar signature and a high degree of automation, the frigate is powered by a modern Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, enabling high-speed operations with exceptional endurance across the full spectrum of maritime missions.It has been designed in-house by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), Mumbai. The frigate’s inhouse production exemplifies India’s growing expertise in indigenous warship design and construction. The construction of all the 7 vessels is divided between MDL and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata.Significant milestoneThe Navy stated that the commissioning of Mahendragiri marks another significant milestone in the successful execution of the Project 17A programme. As successive frigates of the class join the fleet, they continue to strengthen the Indian Navy’s combat capability while reinforcing India’s position as a leading indigenous warship-building nation.Mahendragiri will serve as a formidable force multiplier, safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and contributing to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.As the Indian Navy continues to strengthen its maritime capabilities through indigenous warships, Mahendragiri, as a mission primed unit, stands ready to serve the nation with distinction, living up to her motto, “Mighty–Majestic–Matchles”The frigate embodies resilience, strength and unwavering resolve true to the name she has got from the majestic Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats. As the first Indian Naval warship to bear this name, Mahendragiri is truly sui generis.Published on July 6, 2026
