INS Surat: India’s Largest Destroyer – How It Enhances Naval Power in 2025
Introduction: INS Surat – A Pinnacle of Indian Naval Engineering
On January 15, 2025, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the Visakhapatnam-class (Project 15B) stealth guided-missile destroyers, in a historic triple commissioning ceremony at Mumbai’s Naval Dockyard alongside INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer. Named after the historic port city of Gujarat, INS Surat is not just India’s largest destroyer but also the first AI-integrated warship in the fleet, boasting 75% indigenous content and advanced stealth features. Delivered by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) on December 20, 2024, after just 31 months from launch—the fastest destroyer build in India—this vessel symbolizes the Navy’s blue-water ambitions under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
In 2025, as regional tensions rise with China’s expanding fleet in the Indian Ocean, INS Surat enhances India’s maritime power projection, multi-dimensional operations, and deterrence. This article explores its specifications, commissioning journey, strategic role, and future implications. For context, see our coverage on IAF squadron strength.
INS Surat: From Keel to Commissioning – A Record-Breaking Build
INS Surat (Yard No. 12707) was laid down on November 7, 2019, launched on May 17, 2022, and commenced sea trials on June 15, 2024. It completed final machinery trials on November 25, 2024, and was delivered to the Navy on December 20, 2024—within 31 months of launch, the fastest for any Indian destroyer. Commissioned on January 15, 2025, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it joined the Western Fleet under Commander-in-Chief Western Naval Command.
The triple commissioning with INS Nilgiri (Project 17A frigate) and INS Vaghsheer (Scorpene submarine) underscored India’s shipbuilding prowess, with all three vessels featuring 70-75% indigenous content. Built under Project 15B, INS Surat is the culmination of MDL’s efforts since the Kolkata-class (Project 15A), with enhanced stealth, survivability, and AI integration.
INS Surat Specs: Stealth, AI, and Multi-Role Capabilities
INS Surat is a 7,500-tonne behemoth, 163m long, with a top speed of 30 knots and endurance of 8,500 nautical miles. As India’s first AI-enabled warship, it features predictive maintenance, hazard analysis, and autonomous navigation to reduce human error.
- Stealth Design: Reduced radar cross-section with X-band stealth hull; integrated mast for sensors.
- Armament: 16 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles (range 290-450 km), 32 Barak-8 MR SAMs (range 70 km), 2 twin torpedo tubes, 76mm SRGM gun, CIWS.
- Sensors: MF-STAR AESA radar (360° coverage), HUMSA-NG sonar, EL/M-2248 MF radar, electronic warfare suite.
- Propulsion: 4 gas turbines (COGAG configuration, 110,000 shp).
- Aviation: Hangar for 2 ALH or 1 MH-60R helicopter; enhanced deck for operations.
| Feature | Specs | Role in 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 7,500 tonnes | Largest Indian destroyer, blue-water ops |
| Armament | 16 BrahMos, 32 Barak-8, 76mm gun | Anti-ship/air threat neutralization |
| Sensors | MF-STAR AESA, HUMSA sonar | 360° surveillance, stealth detection |
| AI Integration | Predictive maintenance, autonomous nav | Reduces error, enhances endurance |
| Indigenous Content | 75% | Aatmanirbhar Bharat milestone |
How INS Surat Enhances Naval Power in 2025
INS Surat strengthens India’s multi-dimensional navy amid Indo-Pacific tensions:
- Strategic Deterrence: BrahMos and Barak-8 enable strike from 450 km, countering China’s Type 055 destroyers.
- Blue-Water Capability: 8,500 nm range supports QUAD operations, IOR patrols, and humanitarian missions.
- AI Edge: First AI warship for real-time decision-making, integrating with IACCS for joint ops with IAF.
- Fleet Integration: Complements Vikrant carrier group; 75% indigenous content reduces import dependence.
In 2025, INS Surat’s deployment in the Western Fleet bolsters Arabian Sea security, with maiden overseas call at Jeddah (Aug 28, 2025).
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite successes, challenges remain:
- Delays: Sea trials completed Nov 2024, but full ops by mid-2025.
- Upgrades: Modular design for AIP integration in submarines; potential BrahMos-NG.
- Future: Next Project 18 destroyer by 2030; Surat’s AI sets template for Vikrant-II.
Conclusion: INS Surat – Powering India’s Maritime Dominance
INS Surat’s commissioning cements India’s shipbuilding prowess, enhancing naval power in 2025 with stealth, AI, and indigenous tech. As the Navy aims for 175 warships by 2035, Surat leads the charge. For air-sea synergy, see our IAF squadron strength analysis. What’s your view on Surat?
Poll: Will INS Surat Strengthen India’s IOR Presence?
- Yes
- No
- Partially
Download Infographic: INS Surat Specs 2025
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