Rajnath Singh says Andhra Pradesh is becoming a key hub for India's defence sector during INS Mahendragiri commissioning

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday described Andhra Pradesh as an emerging centre of India’s defence and aerospace ecosystem while commissioning the Indian Navy’s latest stealth frigate, INS Mahendragiri, in Visakhapatnam. The ceremony marked the completion of the Navy’s advanced Project 17A Nilgiri-class frigate programme. Addressing the gathering at the naval base on the eastern coast, Singh highlighted the state’s expanding contribution to India’s defence capabilities across air, maritime, land, and unmanned technology domains.

He said Andhra Pradesh is rapidly developing into a major hub for defence manufacturing, citing several key projects being established in the state. These include the Core Integration and Flight Testing Centre for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) in Puttaparthi and a new Naval Systems Manufacturing Facility of Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Anakapalli district.

According to the minister, the BDL facility will produce advanced underwater defence systems, including autonomous underwater vehicles, torpedoes, and counter-measure technologies, reducing India’s dependence on foreign suppliers. He noted that the state’s defence footprint now extends from fighter aircraft development and drone manufacturing to advanced naval platforms such as INS Mahendragiri.

Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), INS Mahendragiri is a modern multi-role stealth frigate designed for blue-water operations. The 6,670-tonne warship features more than 75 per cent indigenous content and is equipped with advanced weapons and systems, including locally developed rocket and torpedo launchers, electronic warfare capabilities, and the ability to deploy BrahMos missiles.

During the commissioning event, Singh also underlined the Indian Navy’s growing role in protecting national interests and securing vital maritime routes. Referring to recent operations, he said the Navy’s efforts to escort merchant vessels carrying essential supplies demonstrated its importance not only as a military force but also as a protector of India’s economic interests.

The Defence Minister praised the rapid progress of India’s domestic shipbuilding sector, saying the induction of advanced warships reflects the country’s increasing self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. He pointed out that the Navy has inducted six frontline frigates in roughly the last 18 months, describing it as a significant achievement for Indian defence manufacturing.

Linking the development to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHA SAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, Singh said India is moving beyond simply navigating maritime challenges and is building the capability to influence security dynamics across the oceans.

Addressing the challenges of modern warfare, the minister stressed that advanced technology and conventional military strength must progress together. He said emerging technologies alone cannot replace traditional defence platforms, while conventional forces must also evolve with new innovations to remain effective. The commissioning of INS Mahendragiri represents another major milestone in India’s naval modernisation efforts. The latest Nilgiri-class frigate is expected to strengthen the Navy’s operational capabilities, enhance maritime surveillance, and boost India’s presence across the strategically important Indian Ocean Region.