GRSE-built Project 17A stealth frigate Himgiri launched

    • ‘Himgiri’, the first of the three Project 17A ships being built at M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE), Kolkata was launched on 14th Dec on the waters of Hoogly River.

    • The ship has taken its name and crest of the second Frigate of the Leander Class of ships, which incidentally was launched 50 years ago in 1970. 

    • Under the Project 17A program, a total of seven ships, four at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and three ships at GRSE are being built with enhanced stealth features, advanced indigenous weapon and sensor fit along with several other improvements. 

    • The launch of ‘Himgiri’ has showcased GRSE’s commitment towards the building of three state-of-the-art warships of P17A for Indian Navy.

    • Over the years, GRSE has emerged as a leading shipyard having built over 100 ships. 

    • P17A ships are the first gas turbine propulsion and largest combat platforms ever built at GRSE. 

    • P17A ships are the most advanced guided missile frigates, each of which is 149 metres long, with displacement of approximately 6,670 tonnes and a speed of 28 knots, according to an official.

    • The contract of Rs 19,294 crore for construction of three highly advanced stealth frigates under Project 17A is the largest ever order won by the GRSE. Thus since its inception, Project 17A has upheld India’s vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat.

    • Naval shipbuilding provides a great opportunity to energise our economy post COVID-19.

    • Project 17A ships are sourcing 80% of the material/ equipment required for the project from indigenous vendors and with employment generation for over 2000 Indian firms and MSMEs within the country.

    • Modular construction of the ship through outsourcing, and integrated construction methodology are being used to enhance GRSE’s productivity for delivery of ship targeted in August 2023.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants. The views expressed here are personal.)