Indian Navy Commissions Sixth Project 17A Stealth Frigate Mahendragiri
The Indian Navy will commission its sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate, Mahendragiri (F38), at Visakhapatnam on July 11, 2026. This marks the first Indian Naval warship to bear the name Mahendragiri, inspired by the mountain range in the Eastern Ghats, symbolizing resilience and strength.
Designed in-house by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, the frigate represents India's growing expertise in indigenous warship design and construction. The vessel incorporates advanced stealth features including reduced radar signature, enhanced survivability, and a high degree of automation. It is powered by a modern Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system that enables high-speed operations with exceptional endurance across all maritime missions.
With over 75 percent indigenous content, Mahendragiri exemplifies the Government of India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The construction involved a vast network of Indian industries, including numerous Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), generating employment while strengthening the nation's defence industrial base.
The frigate is equipped 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. It is capable of undertaking anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine operations, as well as maritime security, power projection, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), Search and Rescue (SAR), and sustained presence missions.
This commissioning marks another significant milestone in the successful execution of the Project 17A programme, strengthening the Indian Navy's combat capability while reinforcing India's position as a leading indigenous warship-building nation. As India strengthens its role as the Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region, Mahendragiri will serve as a formidable force multiplier, safeguarding the nation's maritime interests and contributing to a secure, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.