Launch of Advanced Frigate Triput: A Milestone in India’s Naval Capabilities

On July 23, 2024, India’s naval prowess took a significant leap forward with the launch of the first of two Advanced Frigates at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). This event marks a crucial milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and its commitment to enhancing naval strength.

The Launch Ceremony

Maritime Tradition Observed

In keeping with time-honored maritime tradition, the ship was launched by Smt Rita Sreedharan. The ceremony was steeped in cultural significance, with the invocation from the Atharva Veda setting a solemn and auspicious tone for the event.

Distinguished Presence

The launch was graced by the presence of Shri P S Sreedharan Pillai, the Honorable Governor of Goa, underlining the importance of this achievement for both the state and the nation.

The Triput: A Symbol of Naval Might

Naming Significance

The ship has been christened Triput, drawing inspiration from the mighty arrow in Indian mythology. This name symbolizes the indomitable spirit of the Indian Navy and its capability to strike with precision over long distances.

Class Significance

The Triput class represents a new generation of indigenously designed and built frigates, showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in advanced naval technology.

Contract and Construction

Agreement Details

The contract for constructing two Triput class Advanced Frigates was signed on January 25, 2019, between the Ministry of Defence and Goa Shipyard Limited. This agreement underscores the government’s trust in domestic shipbuilding capabilities.

Design and Purpose

These frigates are designed for multifaceted combat operations, capable of engaging:

• Enemy surface ships
• Submarines
• Aircraft

This versatility makes the Triput class a valuable asset in various naval scenarios.

Technical Specifications

Dimensions and Performance

The Triput class frigates boast impressive specifications:

• Length: 124.8 meters
• Width: 15.2 meters
• Draught: 4.5 meters
• Displacement: Approximately 3,600 tons
• Maximum Speed: 28 knots

Advanced Features

These ships are equipped with:

• Stealth features for enhanced survivability
• Advanced weapons and sensors for superior combat capabilities
• State-of-the-art platform management systems for efficient operation

Indigenous Development

Lineage and Innovation

The Triput class frigates are evolved versions of the Teg and Talwar class ships previously acquired from Russia. However, they represent a significant leap in India’s shipbuilding capabilities, being the first of their kind to be indigenously constructed by an Indian shipyard.

Alignment with ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’

In line with India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative, a substantial percentage of the equipment, including weapons and sensors, is of indigenous origin. This approach ensures:

• Large-scale defence production within India
• Generation of employment opportunities
• Enhancement of domestic technological capabilities

Implications for Indian Defence

Boost to Naval Capabilities

The introduction of the Triput class frigates significantly enhances the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities, providing it with modern, versatile warships capable of addressing a wide range of maritime challenges.

Strengthening Domestic Industry

By relying heavily on indigenous design and production, this project strengthens India’s defence industrial base, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and fostering innovation within the country.

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