The latest addition to India’s powerful naval fleet, the INS Visakhapatnam, is an indigenously-designed guided-missile destroyer that recently got formal affiliation with the Visakhapatnam port. It is integral to understand not only the ship’s unique features and significance in India’s defense strategy but also the broader maritime security challenges facing the country.
The INS Visakhapatnam: A Guided-Missile Destroyer
INS Visakhapatnam is a standout vessel in the P15B class of guided missile stealth destroyers. Commissioned on November 21, 2021, this ship exemplifies India’s advanced shipbuilding capability, reflecting the country’s commitment to the Make in India initiative and the journey towards becoming ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ or self-reliant. Embracing the motto ‘Yasho Labhasva’ which translates to ‘Attain Glory’, the crew embodies the spirit and capability of the ship to achieve success in all its manoeuvres.
Visakhapatnam class ships are an evolved variant of the Kolkata class destroyers (P-15A) commissioned in the last decade. The destroyer embarked on its maiden voyage to the port as part of the Presidential Fleet Review (PFR) and MILAN 2022. Fleet reviews embody a rich naval tradition wherein ships assemble at a predetermined location to pledge their loyalty and allegiance to the sovereign state.
P15B Ships: Technological Prowess and Advanced Features
The P15B ships, including INS Visakhapatnam, are lauded as some of the world’s most technologically advanced guided missile destroyers. They boast a cutting-edge weapon/sensor package, stealth capabilities, and considerable automation. These ships are fitted with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, long-range Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM), and several indigenous weapons systems. These include medium-range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAMs), indigenous torpedo tube launchers, anti-submarine indigenous rocket launchers, and 76-mm super rapid gun mount.
Securing India’s Maritime Perimeters: Role of P-15B
The Indian Navy’s task of safeguarding an expansive coastline of 7516 Kms, approximately 1100 offshore islands, and a 2.01 million sq km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is increasingly critical amid the shifting geopolitical context. Guided missile Destroyers like the P-15B class are essential in maintaining security in the vast Indo-Pacific oceans, thereby enhancing the potency of the Indian Navy.
These destroyers undertake various responsibilities such as escort duties with the Carrier Battle Group, wherein they protect the Naval fleet against air, surface, and underwater threats. The addition of P-15B class ships to India’s naval fleet thus plays a decisive role in bolstering the country’s maritime security.
In conclusion, the formal induction of the INS Visakhapatnam advances India’s defense capabilities and is a testament to the country’s growing shipbuilding competence. As the lead ship and an example for the planned four P-15B class destroyers (Visakhapatnam, Mormugao, Imphal, Surat), INS Visakhapatnam brings glory to the Indian Navy and fortifies its position in maritime security.
Source: PIB