The Defence Minister of India recently made headlines with the launch of Y-3023 Dunagiri, a frigate constructed as part of Project 17A by Garden Reach Shipbuilders Limited in Kolkata. In this article, we delve into the details of this remarkable ship and discuss the broader aspects of Project 17A Frigates.
About Y-3023 Dunagiri
Y-3023 Dunagiri is the fourth ship to be constructed under the ambitious Project 17A Frigates. Paying homage to a mountain range in Uttarakhand, the name ‘Dunagiri’ is a reincarnation of an erstwhile title attached to the Leander Class ASW Frigate. Dunagiri had a long service of 33 years during which it witnessed numerous operations and multinational maritime exercises.
Project 17A Frigates: An Overview
If you’re wondering what Project 17A Frigates is all about, here’s a brief overview. This series of frigates is a follow-on of the P17 Frigates, or Shivalik Class, and boasts improved stealth features, advanced weapons and sensors, along with platform management systems.
In total, seven frigates will be built under Project 17A for the Indian Navy. Each of these vessels will be equipped with advanced stealth technology. Four of these frigates are being built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders in Mumbai, while the remaining three are being constructed at Garden Reach Ship Builders Limited in Kolkata.
Spotlight on Stealth Features
The primary advanced stealth feature of the P-17A frigates involves a reduced Radar cross-section of the ship. This has been achieved through the use of a special superstructure shape, which minimizes radar wave reflections. Moreover, the P17A frigates incorporate new design concepts that lend them improved survivability, sea-keeping, stealth, and maneuverability.
Particular attention has been paid to the reduction of the ship’s low acoustic noise emanating from propellers and operating machinery like Diesel Generators. This helps in making the ship less detectable by sonars on other ships and adds to its survival capabilities during hostile operations.
Impressive Weapon Systems on Board
The weapon and sensor suite of P-17A ships is truly advanced, reflecting the latest in maritime warfare technology. These systems include the BrahMos SSM, LRSAM (in Forward & Aft configuration) coupled with MF STAR radar, an indigenous Sonar, and a Triple tube Heavy Torpedo launcher.
The First Three Ships of Project 17A
Before the launch of Y-3023 Dunagiri, Project 17A had already seen the successful construction of three ships. These were:
– INS Nilgiri
– INS Himgiri
– INS Udaygiri
These vessels set the stage for the enhanced capabilities and features that we now see in Y-3023 Dunagiri.