Raksha Mantri Inaugurates INS Imphal, a Pinnacle of Indigenous Defence Prowess
In a momentous ceremony at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh commissioned INS Imphal, a state-of-the-art stealth guided missile destroyer, on December 26, 2023. This marks a significant stride in India’s maritime capabilities, with INS Imphal being the third of four ‘Visakhapatnam’ class destroyers designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
With an impressive 75% indigenous content, advanced stealth features, and cutting-edge equipment, INS Imphal stands as a beacon of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence. The ship, measuring 163m in length, 17m in breadth, and a displacement of 7,400 tonnes, is propelled by four powerful Gas Turbines in a Combined Gas & Gas configuration, capable of speeds exceeding 30 knots.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh lauded INS Imphal as a testament to India’s growing maritime power, emphasizing its role in strengthening the country’s naval prowess in the Indo-Pacific region. He stated, “INS Imphal is a symbol of India’s growing maritime power and it will bolster our principle of ‘Jalmev Yasya, Balmev Tasya’ (One Who Controls the Sea is All Powerful) in the Indo-Pacific region.”
The ship integrates various strengths of the nation, featuring contributions from Brahmos Aerospace, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and several startups and MSMEs. Rajnath Singh highlighted the collaborative efforts, stating, “Just like many elements have given a concrete form to INS Imphal, people from all walks of life should work together for us to become ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).”
The Raksha Mantri addressed recent attacks on merchant vessels, including ‘Chem Pluto’ and ‘Sai Baba,’ affirming the government’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. He acknowledged the jealousy and hatred faced by India due to its growing economic and strategic power.
“India plays the role of a Net Security Provider in the entire Indian Ocean Region. We will ensure that maritime trade in this region touches greater heights. For this, together with our friendly countries, we will keep the sea lanes secure. We have full confidence in the ability and strength of our Navy,” Rajnath Singh declared.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar highlighted INS Imphal’s distinction as a symbol of the Indian Navy’s commitment to self-reliance in defence. He emphasized the ship’s role in deterring threats, stating, “INS Imphal will deter the various designs that try to harm national unity. It will breathe fire upon the enemy and demonstrate unflinching resolve in the face of adversity.”
INS Imphal is the first warship named after a city in the North-east, underscoring the region’s importance. Its keel was laid on May 19, 2017, and its speedy construction and trials set a record for any indigenous destroyer. The ship successfully test-fired an extended-range Brahmos missile before commissioning, affirming its ‘weapon-ready’ status.
The event was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command Vice Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and Director (Finance) with Additional Charge of Chairman & Managing Director, MDL Sanjeev Singhal.
INS Imphal, commanded by Captain KK Choudhury, with a total complement of about 315 personnel, is poised to augment the Navy’s mobility, reach, and flexibility in safeguarding the nation’s maritime security and interests.
