INS Agray, an anti-submarine warfare shallow vessel, is adapted for coastal defense operations. Photo: X/@IN_WNC
Three front-line naval platforms – INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray – were delivered to the Navy by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd on Monday (March 30, 2026). (GRSE), marking a significant boost to India’s defense manufacturing capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
This is the first time that GRSE has delivered three major offshore platforms simultaneously, underscoring its increased production capacity, improved project management and operational efficiency. With this success, the shipyard has now built 118 warships, including 80 for the Indian Navy, reinforcing its role as a key pillar of India’s maritime defense ecosystem.
INS Dunagiri, the second Project 17A advanced guided missile frigate built by GRSE, represents a leap in indigenous warship design. The 149-metre-long, 6,670-tonne stealth frigate is equipped with advanced weapons and sensors, including BrahMos cruise missiles, AESA radar and an integrated combat management system. It is powered by a combined diesel and gas turbine configuration and is capable of multidimensional operations across air, surface and subsurface domains.
INS Sanshodhak, the fourth and last survey ship (large) of its class, is strengthening the Navy’s hydrographic capabilities. The 110m vessel is designed for coastal and deep sea surveys, oceanographic data collection and can also support helicopter operations, HADR missions and limited combat roles.
INS Agray, an anti-submarine warfare shallow vessel, is adapted for coastal defense operations. With about 88% original content, she is equipped with light torpedoes, ASW missiles and a 30mm naval gun. Its shallow draft and waterjet propulsion system improve maneuverability in coastal waters.
The simultaneous rollout of these platforms underscores GRSE’s robust infrastructure and its ability to handle multiple complex builds simultaneously. The yard is currently working on several key projects, including additional stealth frigates, ASW vessels and coastal patrol vessels, along with export platforms, further cementing its position in the Indian defense manufacturing landscape.
Published – 30 March 2026 22:44 IST
