‘Surat’ Becomes The First Navy Warship To Be Named After A City In Gujarat

 

On 6th November, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel unveiled the crest of the Indian Navy’s latest warship ‘Surat.’ This event took place in the very city that the warship is named after, a historic first for the Indian Navy. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, and Rear Admiral Anil Jaggi, among other senior officers.

A Unique Tribute

‘Surat’ holds the distinction of being the first warship named after a city in Gujarat. This tribute is significant because Surat has a remarkable maritime heritage. During the 16th to the 18th century, Surat was a thriving center for maritime trade and shipbuilding activities. The ships constructed in Surat were renowned for their longevity, with some vessels remaining in service for over a century. This historical connection adds depth and significance to the warship’s name.

Project 15B – Cutting-Edge Technology

‘Surat’ is part of the ‘Project 15B‘ program, which involves the construction of four next-generation stealth guided missile destroyers. It is the fourth and final ship in this program. The warship is presently under construction at the Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai, showcasing India’s commitment to indigenous cutting-edge warship building technology and strategic military advancements.

Indian Navy’s Remarkable Growth

The Indian Navy was established on September 5, 1612. With more than 130 surface warships and an additional 67 warships under construction, it stands as a symbol of India’s commitment to national security. Notably, ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atma Nirbharta’ have played a pivotal role in the growth of the Indian Navy. Out of the 67 warships under construction, an impressive 65 are being constructed in Indian shipyards, signifying India’s self-reliance and indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

A Proud Naval Tradition

It is a time-honored naval tradition to name Indian naval ships after prominent cities of the nation, signifying the deep-rooted connection between the Indian Navy and the country’s heritage. The Indian Navy takes immense pride in naming its latest and most technologically advanced warship after the city of Surat. This act not only honors Surat’s maritime legacy but also underscores the importance of connecting the past with the future in India’s naval endeavors.

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