Mazagon Dock Commissions INS Mahendragiri, Fourth Project 17A Stealth Frigate
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders commissioned INS Mahendragiri, the fourth Nilgiri-class stealth frigate under Project 17A, into the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam in the presence of Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh. The 6,400-tonne vessel, measuring 149 metres in length, features approximately 75% indigenous content and a CODOG propulsion system enabling speeds exceeding 28 knots. Its construction recorded a 21% reduction in build period compared to the First-of-Class ship, reinforcing India's Atmanirbhar Bharat defence manufacturing objectives.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd commissioned INS Mahendragiri, an advanced stealth frigate, into the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam. The ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh. The commissioning reinforces India's objective of achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan and Make in India initiatives. The vessel is expected to significantly augment the Indian Navy's surveillance capabilities and operational reach across the Indian Ocean Region.
Designed and built under Project 17A, INS Mahendragiri is the fourth ship of the Nilgiri class stealth frigates constructed by the company. The basic design was developed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau (WDB), while the detailed design and construction were undertaken by Mazagon Dock. The Warship Overseeing Team (Mumbai) supervised the construction process to ensure adherence to naval standards.
Technical Specifications and Combat Systems
INS Mahendragiri measures 149 metres in length and 17.8 metres in breadth, with a displacement of approximately 6,400 tonnes. It is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system comprising two Gas Turbines and two Main Diesel Engines, enabling speeds exceeding 28 knots. The ship integrates stealth technology, advanced weapon systems, modern sensors and automated systems. The following table summarises the vessel's key technical parameters:
| Specification: | Details |
|---|---|
| Length: | 149 metres |
| Breadth: | 17.8 metres |
| Displacement: | 6,400 tonnes |
| Propulsion: | CODOG (2 Gas Turbines, 2 Diesel Engines) |
| Speed: | > 28 knots |
Construction Efficiency and Delivery
The construction of INS Mahendragiri demonstrated a 21% reduction in build period compared to the First-of-Class vessel. The ship completed Sea Trials and Final Machinery Trials within two months of Basin Trials. Over the past sixteen months, Mazagon Dock has delivered five warships and one submarine to the Indian Navy. Key combat systems, including SRGM, AK-630, BrahMos, Kavach and IRL, achieved full operational readiness prior to delivery.
Indigenous Content and Strategic Impact
The frigate contains approximately 75% indigenous content, highlighting the capabilities of the domestic defence industrial ecosystem. The project involved collaboration between the Indian Navy, Mazagon Dock and various Indian industries, including MSMEs. This induction supports the government's vision of reducing dependence on foreign technologies and establishing India as a leading maritime power.
Historical Stock Returns for Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| +0.40% | -6.10% | -2.91% | -4.10% | -23.90% | +1,786.01% |
How will the 21% reduction in build period for INS Mahendragiri influence Mazagon Dock's future order book and delivery timelines?
What is the expected impact of increased indigenous content on the profitability and export potential of India's defence sector?
How might the commissioning of advanced stealth frigates alter the strategic balance in the Indian Ocean Region?































