Navy commissions second indigenous stealth frigate

Speaking on the occasion,Admiral Verma said,“The commissioning of INS Satpura is a milestone and will strengthen the fighting fleet of the Indian Navy. Its improved survivability,maneuvering and stealth ability will act significantly towards Navy’s status as a blue water navy.”

Defence Minister A K Antony was scheduled to commission the ship. Admiral Verma commissioned the frigate since he could not attend the function.

With about 60 per cent indigenisation,the construction of the ship started in August 2002. Armed with long range anti-ship missiles,anti-aircraft missiles as well as missile defence system,INS Satpura has the capacity to engage in a three dimensional warfare on surface,air as well as sub-surface levels.

What reduces the ship’s signature is the Radar Absorbent Material colour as well as curved and angled edges along with other electronic warfare systems.

The commissioning of INS Satpura is significant against the backdrop of the recent operations of Indian Navy against Somalian pirates and the growing aspirations of the force to be a blue water navy.

While 70 per cent of the sea trials already completed,the rest will be completed soon after the commissioning. The Naval chief said there had been an increased coordination between various agencies involved in coastal surveillance.