Indian Navy Receives First of Three P17A Frigates from GRSE

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In a significant boost to its naval capabilities and a landmark achievement for indigenous shipbuilding, the Indian Navy has officially taken delivery of the advanced guided-missile frigate, “Himgiri.” The delivery, which took place on July 31, 2025, from Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd in Kolkata, marks the completion of the first of three such warships being constructed by the shipyard under the Indian Navy’s Project 17A. Rear Admiral Ravnish Seth, Chief Staff Officer (Technical) of the Eastern Naval Command formally accepted the vessel on behalf of the Navy, underscoring its importance to the nation’s defense strategy.

The Project 17A frigates represent a new generation of multi-mission platforms designed to address modern maritime challenges. Himgiri, with a length of 149 meters and a displacement of 6,670 tonnes, is the largest and most sophisticated frigate ever built by GRSE. The vessel is a “reincarnation” of an earlier frigate with the same name, which served the nation for 30 years before its decommissioning. The new ship incorporates a generational leap in naval design, featuring enhanced stealth capabilities and advanced weapon systems.

Himgiri is equipped with a formidable arsenal, including BrahMos anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles, along with Barak 8 anti-aircraft missiles. The frigate’s combat suite also includes a 76 mm naval gun, demonstrating its versatility for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare operations. These advanced systems are part of a broader effort to equip the Navy with the latest technology, ensuring it can effectively protect India’s maritime interests.

The construction of Himgiri is a testament to the nation’s commitment to self-reliance, with the project having an indigenous content of approximately 75%. This initiative has not only fostered the growth of the domestic shipbuilding industry but has also provided a significant economic boost. The project has engaged over 200 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and has generated employment for thousands of people directly and indirectly. GRSE officials noted that the contract for the three ships is valued at over Rs 21,833.36 crore, a substantial investment that has nourished the country’s shipbuilding ecosystem. With 15 more warships currently under construction by GRSE for the Indian Navy, the delivery of Himgiri signifies a strong and continuing partnership in strengthening the nation’s naval power.