Navy Chief Hails Tri-Commissioning of INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray as Milestone in India’s Maritime Rise

Kolkata, June 21: Chief of the Naval Staff Dinesh K Tripathi hailed the commissioning of INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray as a landmark achievement reflecting India’s growing self-reliance, technological advancement and shipbuilding capabilities.

Addressing the tri-commissioning ceremony in Kolkata, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Navy Chief said the event demonstrated the rapid transformation of India’s maritime sector and defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Describing the Prime Minister’s presence as a source of pride and inspiration, Admiral Tripathi said it reflected the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening India’s maritime power and strategic capabilities. He also acknowledged the presence of the Governor and Chief Minister of West Bengal, senior Defence Ministry officials, veterans and industry partners who contributed to the successful completion of the three projects.

Second Tri-Commissioning in Just 17 Months

The Navy Chief noted that after Independent India’s first-ever tri-commissioning ceremony in Mumbai last year, the second such event within just 17 months showcases the increasing pace of indigenous warship construction driven by modern technology, self-reliance and confidence.

He congratulated Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), industry partners, MSMEs, Naval Headquarters, warship overseeing teams and trial agencies for their dedicated efforts in bringing the projects from concept to commissioning.

New Records in Indigenous Shipbuilding

Highlighting the significance of the three vessels, Admiral Tripathi said each project has set important benchmarks for India’s naval modernization.

• INS Dunagiri, the fifth frigate under Project 17A, is equipped with advanced combat capabilities and was completed approximately 33% faster than ships under the previous frigate programme.
• INS Sanshodhak, the fourth hydrographic survey vessel of the Sandhayak class, was commissioned on World Hydrography Day, adding symbolic significance to the occasion. Equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic systems, the vessel will support maritime development, navigation safety and the Blue Economy initiatives of partner nations under India’s MAHASAGAR Vision.
• INS Agray, the fourth Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft of the Arnala class, exemplifies successful public-private partnership in defence production. The project leverages private shipyard participation to optimize resources and reduce construction timelines.

Strengthening Maritime Security

The Navy Chief expressed confidence that the three frontline platforms would significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities and strengthen efforts to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests.

Congratulating the commanding officers and crews of all three ships, he said they would carry forward the proud traditions of the Indian Navy with dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to national security.

“These ships will not only boost our maritime strength but also write new golden chapters in the glorious history of the Indian Navy,” he said, concluding with the Navy’s traditional invocation, “Sam No Varunah”, and a resounding “Jai Hind.”