Indian Navy Receives Frigate Mahendragiri

Sixth Project 17A Frigate Mahendragiri | Image: Indian Navy

The Indian Navy has taken delivery of the stealth frigate Mahendragiri, the sixth ship under Project 17A, at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai on 30 April 2026.

Mahendragiri is part of the Nilgiri-class frigates and is the fourth vessel of the class built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. The delivery comes within 17 months of the first Project 17A ship, Nilgiri, being handed over in December 2024.

Project 17A frigates are designed as multi-mission platforms for operations across maritime domains. The ships are built with an emphasis on reduced radar signature, survivability, and integration of multiple combat systems. The design has been developed by the Warship Design Bureau, while construction was overseen by the Warship Overseeing Team in Mumbai.

The vessels are equipped with a range of weapons and sensors to conduct anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare operations. The propulsion system follows a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) configuration, using both diesel engines and gas turbines connected to controllable pitch propellers. The ships also incorporate an Integrated Platform Management System for monitoring and control.

The programme involves domestic industry participation, with indigenous content reported at 75 percent. More than 200 micro, small and medium enterprises have contributed to construction at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. The project has generated direct and indirect employment for several thousand personnel.

Mahendragiri is one of a series of frigates being inducted to enhance the Navy’s surface fleet capabilities. The Project 17A programme continues to deliver ships at scheduled intervals as part of India’s naval modernisation plans.