Imphal, Indian Navy’s third indigenous stealth destroyer of the Project 15B class, Joins the Indian Navy’s Arsenal
October 22, 2023 – In a momentous event on October 20, 2023, the Indian Navy welcomed the third Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyer, INS Imphal, into its fleet. Built at the prestigious Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), this indigenous marvel is a remarkable addition to India’s naval capabilities. The vessel was commissioned with great pride, marking another significant stride towards a self-reliant India, in line with the ‘AatmaNirbharBharat’ initiative.
INS Imphal Project 15B
The Legacy of Project 15B
The Project 15B destroyer, led by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB), is a continuation of the Kolkata-class destroyers (Project 15A), which were commissioned in the past decade. INS Imphal joins the ranks of its predecessors, Indian Naval Ships Visakhapatnam and Mormugao, which were commissioned in the last two years.
Technological Marvel
Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai, INS Imphal stands as a testament to indigenous shipbuilding prowess. It’s one of the most technologically advanced warships globally, embodying India’s engineering and naval capabilities. The destroyer, with a displacement of 7,400 tons and an overall length of 164 meters, boasts a wide array of state-of-the-art weapons and sensors.
Firepower and Performance
Imphal is a guided missile destroyer equipped with surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles, and torpedoes. Its Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) propulsion system, featuring four gas turbines, allows it to achieve speeds exceeding 30 knots (56 km/h).
Indigenous Excellence
What truly sets INS Imphal apart is its impressive indigenous content, making up approximately 75% of its components. It includes Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles from BEL, Bangalore, BrahMos Surface-to-Surface Missiles by BrahMos Aerospace, New Delhi, Indigenous Torpedo Tube Launchers from Larsen & Toubro, Mumbai, Anti-Submarine Indigenous Rocket Launchers, and a 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mount from BHEL, Haridwar.
A Swift Journey to the Sea
Imphal’s journey began with its keel being laid on May 19, 2017, followed by its launch into the water on April 20, 2019. Notably, the vessel embarked on its maiden sea trials on April 28, 2023. Impressively, it underwent a comprehensive schedule of trials in the harbor and at sea, leading to its delivery within a record timeframe of only six months. The speed at which Imphal was constructed and tested sets a new standard for indigenous destroyer production.
A Tribute to ‘AatmaNirbharBharat’
The delivery of INS Imphal serves as a powerful affirmation of the Indian government and the Indian Navy’s commitment to ‘AatmaNirbharBharat.’ It reflects the collective efforts of numerous stakeholders and significantly enhances India’s maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
Conclusion
INS Imphal, the third Project 15B destroyer, is not just a vessel; it’s a symbol of India’s growing self-reliance in naval technology. Its exceptional indigenous content, cutting-edge weaponry, and record construction time make it a remarkable addition to the Indian Navy’s fleet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Project 15B in the Indian Navy? Project 15B is a series of stealth guided missile destroyers that form a critical part of the Indian Navy’s fleet, known for their advanced capabilities.
- What are some key features of INS Imphal? INS Imphal is armed with surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles, advanced sensors, and boasts a high level of indigenous content in its construction.
- How does INS Imphal contribute to ‘AatmaNirbharBharat’? The vessel’s construction and capabilities showcase India’s self-reliance and technological advancement in naval warfare.
- Why is the delivery of INS Imphal significant for the Indian Navy? INS Imphal enhances the Indian Navy’s maritime prowess in the Indian Ocean Region, serving as a symbol of India’s growing naval strength.
- What’s the unique feature of INS Imphal regarding accommodation? INS Imphal is the first naval warship in India to accommodate women officers and sailors, representing progress and inclusivity in the Indian Navy.
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