India Strengthens Maritime Defense with New Naval Ships Commissioned by PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently underscored the significance of maritime capabilities for India's economic and strategic influence during the commissioning of three new naval ships in Kolkata. He highlighted the nation's goal of achieving self-reliance in defense, moving away from being just a buyer. The newly commissioned vessels, including the stealth frigate Dunagiri, represent India's growing maritime prowess, with over 75% indigenous content. This event marks a significant step in India's naval expansion, showcasing the country's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2026, 13:15 IST

PM Modi Highlights Importance of Maritime Strength

PM Modi in Kolkata

Kolkata, June 21: During a recent event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that robust maritime capabilities are crucial for a nation's economic and strategic power, a principle that India is keenly aware of and actively pursuing.

While commissioning three naval ships at the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata, Modi expressed India's ambition to move beyond being merely a purchaser in the defense sector, asserting that the armed forces should not serve as a marketplace for global suppliers.

He stated, “Our self-reliance is the true measure of our capabilities, not our role as a global market.”

Modi pointed out that India showcased its maritime strength with the commissioning of the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant a few years back.

He noted that over 40 warships and submarines have been added to the fleet in recent years, with 45 more large naval vessels currently under construction.

“A nation cannot achieve great power status without maritime strength. The seas are integral to our development, security, and prosperity,” he remarked.

Among the ships commissioned were the stealth frigate Dunagiri, the survey vessel Sanshodhak, and the anti-submarine warfare craft Agray.

These advanced platforms signify essential operational capabilities in maritime combat, hydrographic surveying, and anti-submarine warfare.

Notable attendees at the commissioning ceremony included West Bengal Governor R N Ravi, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, and Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan.

The vessels were designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by the Kolkata-based Defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd.

According to officials, these ships boast over 75 percent indigenous content, with significant contributions from the Indian industry, including participation from more than 200 MSMEs in their development.