Raksha Mantri Commissions INS Taragiri into Indian Navy
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh on Friday commissioned the fourth Project 17A-class frigate, INS Taragiri, into the Indian Navy, describing the ship as “not just a warship; it is a symbol of India’s technological prowess, self-reliance, and formidable naval power.”
Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited with support from MSMEs and designed by the Warship Design Bureau, the 6,670-tonne stealth frigate is equipped for multi-role operations. It incorporates advanced technology to reduce its radar signature and features over 75% indigenous content, completed in record timelines.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rajnath Singh highlighted the vessel’s operational capabilities. “INS Taragiri can operate at high speed, remain deployed at sea for extended periods, and is equipped with modern radar, sonar, BrahMos missiles, and surface-to-air systems. From high-intensity combat to maritime security, anti-piracy, coastal surveillance, and humanitarian missions, it is designed to excel in every role,” he said.
He underlined India’s strategic maritime interests, noting that the country’s 11,000-km coastline and reliance on sea routes for 95% of trade make a strong navy essential. “Our Navy maintains a round-the-clock presence across the Indian Ocean, securing trade routes, protecting vessels, and ensuring national interests. INS Taragiri strengthens our ability to guarantee peace and prosperity for the entire region,” he added.
The Raksha Mantri also stressed the need to safeguard undersea internet cables and critical sea lanes, calling for a future-ready approach to maritime security that goes beyond coastal defence. He lauded India’s defence manufacturing growth and record exports, which reached ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, up from ₹1,200 crore just over a decade ago.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi recalled INS Taragiri’s legacy, linking it to the earlier Leander-class frigate commissioned in 1980, and emphasised the Navy’s commitment to remain combat-ready amid evolving threats in the Indian Ocean region.
The commissioning ceremony included the ceremonial breaking of the Commissioning Pennant and the first hoisting of the National Flag on the ship. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, and CMD of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited Captain Jagmohan (Retd) were present.
INS Taragiri is expected to strengthen India’s naval capabilities significantly, representing a blend of advanced technology, indigenous production, and strategic foresight.