VisakhapatnamThe Indian Navy will commission INS Mahendragiri (F38), the sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate, into its Eastern Fleet at Visakhapatnam on 11 July 2026. The commissioning ceremony will be presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marking another significant milestone in India's indigenous warship-building programme.
Designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mahendragiri is a next-generation stealth frigate featuring advanced stealth characteristics, reduced radar signature, enhanced survivability, and a high degree of automation. The warship is capable of undertaking the full spectrum of naval operations, including anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.
With over 75% indigenous content, Mahendragiri reflects the success of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and showcases the growing capabilities of India's domestic shipbuilding industry. The project has involved numerous Indian companies, including MSMEs, strengthening the country's defence manufacturing ecosystem and generating employment.
Named after the Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats, the warship symbolizes strength, resilience, and operational excellence. As the first Indian naval vessel to bear the name, Mahendragiri is fully mission-ready and will further enhance the Navy's combat capabilities.
On Date: