INS Mahendragiri set to be commissioned at Visakhapatnam’s Eastern Naval Command
The Indian Navy is commissioning the INS Mahendragiri, a stealth frigate built under the Project 17A initiative, at the Visakhapatnam Naval Dockyard. The vessel highlights India's growing domestic defense manufacturing capabilities and commitment to maritime security.
Why it matters
The commissioning represents a significant milestone in India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' defense initiative and regional maritime power projection.
The Indian Navy is set to add a formidable new asset to its arsenal with the commissioning of INS Mahendragiri (F38), the sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam on Saturday (July 11, 2026).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “Today, India is emerging as one of the world’s major maritime powers.”
The commissioning ceremony on Saturday (July 11, 2026) is being presided over by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who arrived in the city on Friday (July 10, 2026) — coinciding with his 75th birthday—for a two-day visit.
Ahead of the formal induction, Mr. Singh addressed naval personnel at a Barakhana on Friday (July 10, 2026) night at the Eastern Naval Command, commending their unwavering vigilance in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in