NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday commissioned two cutting-edge multi-mission stealth frigates, INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, at the Indian Navy’s Eastern Command in Visakhapatnam, giving a significant boost to India’s maritime power.
In a veiled reference to the United States, Rajnath Singh remarked that while one nation operates the F-35 fighter jet in the skies, the Indian Navy has created its own ‘F-35 warship.’ He highlighted that INS Udaygiri now sails the seas powered by ‘Made in India’ technology.
Rajnath Singh: Navy a Pillar of National Economic Security
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the launch of India’s indigenous “F-35 warship,” saying, “One nation has a flying F-35, and you have built a floating F-35—completely Made in India.”
Underscoring the growing importance of maritime power, he said the geo-strategic situation to India’s west directly impacts the nation’s economic growth. Singh stressed that the Navy’s role goes beyond safeguarding territorial waters, serving as a key pillar of India’s economic security.
“Our energy needs—oil, natural gas, and other resources—depend heavily on the security of this region. Therefore, the Navy’s responsibility is not limited to sea protection but extends to safeguarding the foundations of our economic development,” he added.
Attended the Commissioning Ceremony of Multi-mission stealth frigates – INS Udaygiri & INS Himgiri in Visakhapatnam today.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) August 26, 2025
These frigates, which will enhance the capability of the Indian Navy, send a message that India is fully capable of protecting its maritime borders and is… pic.twitter.com/jibzHurup7
Referring to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which Indian tourists lost their lives, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the nation had given a firm response. ‘The attack on our innocent people was a challenge, but India responded effectively and precisely through Operation Sindoor,’ he noted, describing it as a cross-border military offensive against terror hideouts in Pakistan. He added, ‘Operation Sindoor is not over—it is only on pause.’
Reiterating India’s commitment to peace but also preparedness, Singh stressed, ‘India has always conveyed the message of peace to the world and has never initiated war. But if anyone threatens our peace and security, we know how to give a befitting reply—and we will continue to do so.’
He also underlined the challenges in the Indian Ocean, where global power rivalries often collide. ‘The power play in the Indian Ocean frequently alerts us, as the interests of several countries clash here. This makes it essential for India to strengthen its maritime readiness,’ he said.
Highlighting the Navy’s progress in indigenous warship design, Singh pointed out that it took nearly five decades for the Warship Design Bureau to deliver 100 ships but expressed confidence that the tally would double within the next 25 years.
Rajnath Singh: INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri a Milestone for Atmanirbhar Bharat
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri as a “dream come true” for Atmanirbhar Bharat, asserting that the advanced warships will serve as a milestone in strengthening the nation’s security. He said the frigates would not only bolster India’s defence system but also enhance humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
Singh emphasized that their induction marks a significant step towards the “neighborhood first” policy, fostering regional cooperation and security for all. He highlighted that the new frigates reflect India’s capability to safeguard its maritime borders and respond swiftly to any challenge, while the Navy continues to ensure peace and prosperity across the Indian Ocean region.
Pointing to the government’s focus on modernisation, Singh underlined that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the defence sector has been prioritized. “Hi-tech equipment once available to only a handful of nations is now being designed and manufactured in India,” he said, adding that INS Tamal would be the last foreign-built ship to join the Indian Navy.
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Rajnath Singh: New Frigates to Be Game-Changer for Indian Navy
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the armed forces are being strengthened with a futuristic vision, and the commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri will greatly boost the Navy’s strength, reach, and resilience.
Calling the new frigates “modern and vital assets,” he expressed confidence that they will be a game-changer in handling complex and high-risk operations at sea.
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