The Indian Navy will commission its sixth indigenously built Project 17A stealth frigate, Mahendragiri (F38), at Visakhapatnam on July 11. The advanced warship represents another major step in India's drive towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing and the expansion of its naval capabilities. Named after the Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats, the frigate embodies strength, resilience and determination. As the first naval vessel to carry this name, Mahendragiri is expected to carve out a distinguished legacy while contributing to India's growing maritime strength.

The warship has been designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai. It is the sixth vessel under the Project 17A programme, showcasing India's increasing expertise in designing and building sophisticated warships domestically. Built with modern stealth technology, Mahendragiri features a reduced radar signature, improved survivability and extensive onboard automation. It is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, enabling high-speed operations along with the endurance required for a wide range of naval missions.

With more than 75% of its components sourced within India, the frigate reflects the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Its construction involved a broad network of Indian manufacturers, including numerous Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), helping generate employment while strengthening the country's defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The vessel is equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced indigenous weapons and sensors, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems, electronic warfare equipment, anti-submarine warfare capabilities and an integrated Combat Management System. These systems enable the frigate to conduct anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine operations, while also supporting maritime security patrols, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), search and rescue operations, and sustained deployments at sea.

The induction of Mahendragiri marks another important milestone in the Project 17A programme. As more ships of this class join the fleet, they are expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy's operational capabilities and further establish India as a leading nation in indigenous warship construction. With India playing an increasingly important role in ensuring security across the Indian Ocean Region, Mahendragiri is expected to serve as a powerful force multiplier, protecting the country's maritime interests while contributing to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Guided by its motto, "Mighty, Majestic, Matchless," the frigate is set to play a key role in the Navy's future operations.