President Droupadi Murmu launched INS Vindhyagiri, an advanced stealth frigate, at the GRSE facility in Kolkata.
The frigate is the sixth of its kind to be built under Project 17A.
The other two sister ships are currently at the outfitting jetty at GRSE, undergoing equipment trials.
Project 17A frigates are follow-on ships of the Project 17 (Shivalik Class) frigates.
They have improved stealth features, advanced weapons and sensors, and platform management systems.
Seven Project 17A frigates are under various stages of construction at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and GRSE.
The launch of INS Vindhyagiri will boost the defence industrial base in India, reducing India’s dependence on foreign suppliers.
It will also promote self-reliance and foster a robust defence industrial base.
The state-of-the-art ship will be fitted with the latest gadgets and undergo extensive trials before being commissioned into service.
President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the significance of Vindhyagiri and hoped that it would uphold the values that India holds dear.