Indian shipyard GRSE to launch sixth Project 17A frigate Vindhyagiri.

According to information published by the Indian government on August 13, 2023, the sixth Project 17A frigate Vindhyagiri will be launched at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited in Kolkata.
Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link

Indian Project 17A frigate INS Himgiri. (Picture source: Indian MoD)

Drawing inspiration from the majestic mountain range in Karnataka, the ship Vindhyagiri is not just a successor to the Project 17 class frigates (Shivalik Class), but also a symbolic reincarnation of its storied predecessor, the Leander class ASW Frigate INS Vindhyagiri. This previous warship served the nation valiantly from 1981 to 2012, participating in numerous operations and multinational drills.

This program, spanning across two shipbuilding entities, M/s MDL and M/s GRSE, has already witnessed five launches between 2019 and 2022. The Vindhyagiri's debut embodies India's naval heritage's dual spirit - honoring the past while sailing towards an indigenously fortified future.

Technical data

With a displacement of 6,670 tons, they measure 149 meters in length. They are powered by two MAN Diesel and two General Electric engines, achieving a speed of 32 knots.

Their operational range is up to 5,500 nautical miles at speeds of 16-18 knots. For navigation and detection, they use the IAI EL/M-2248 MF-STAR S-Band AESA radar and the BEL HUMSA-NG active/passive sonar.

Their defense systems include 32 Barak 8ER surface-to-air missiles, 8 BrahMos anti-ship missiles, Varunastra torpedoes, and RBU-6000 anti-submarine rocket launchers.

Additionally, they are equipped with an OTO Melara 76 mm naval gun and 2 AK-630M CIWS. On the electronic front, they utilize the DRDO "Shakti" EW suite and are equipped with Kavach and NSTL Maareech decoy systems.

The frigates have the capability to accommodate two HAL Dhruv or Sea King Mk. 42B helicopters, supported by an enclosed hangar. They can house a crew of 226, including 35 officers.