INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, INS Agray: How Indian Navy's 3 new indigenous ships add varied capabilities

The Indian Navy has taken another significant step towards self-reliance with the induction of three indigenously built vessels—INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray—each designed to perform distinct roles and strengthen India's maritime capabilities.

The addition of the three platforms underscores the government's emphasis on indigenous defence production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and highlights the growing capabilities of India's shipbuilding industry.

While all three vessels have been developed domestically, they serve very different operational purposes, ranging from frontline warfare and maritime surveillance to hydrographic research and logistical support.

INS Dunagiri: Advanced stealth frigate

INS Dunagiri is one of the latest stealth frigates inducted into the Indian Navy and represents a major enhancement of the fleet's combat capabilities.

Equipped with advanced sensors, modern radar systems, anti-ship and anti-aircraft weaponry, the warship is designed to undertake a wide range of missions including maritime security, escort operations, anti-submarine warfare and fleet defence.

Its stealth features reduce radar detection, making it more difficult for adversaries to track and target. The vessel is expected to play a key role in safeguarding India's maritime interests in strategically important waters.

INS Sanshodhak: Enhancing hydrographic and survey capabilities

Unlike combat-focused warships, INS Sanshodhak is a hydrographic survey vessel designed to collect and analyse critical maritime data.

The ship is equipped with advanced survey equipment capable of mapping the seabed, charting coastal waters and conducting oceanographic studies. Such data is vital for safe navigation, port development, submarine operations and maritime infrastructure projects.

The vessel will also support disaster response efforts by providing accurate hydrographic information in affected regions.

INS Agray: Strengthening operational support

INS Agray serves as an auxiliary and support vessel, providing crucial logistical assistance to naval operations.

Support ships are essential for maintaining fleet readiness, enabling extended deployments and facilitating operations far from home ports. Agray is expected to assist in transport, supply and other mission-support functions that allow frontline warships to remain operational for longer periods.

Military planners often describe such vessels as force multipliers because they enhance the effectiveness of combat assets without directly participating in frontline engagements.

Boost for indigenous defence manufacturing

The induction of the three ships reflects India's broader effort to reduce dependence on foreign defence imports and develop a robust domestic defence-industrial ecosystem.

Over the past decade, Indian shipyards have significantly expanded their ability to design and construct sophisticated naval platforms, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, submarines and survey vessels.

Defence officials say the growing use of indigenous systems not only strengthens national security but also generates employment, promotes technological innovation and enhances export potential.

Strategic significance

The arrival of INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray comes at a time when maritime security is becoming increasingly important in the Indo-Pacific region.

With growing geopolitical competition, expanding naval activity and evolving security challenges, the Indian Navy is seeking to maintain a capable and versatile fleet able to perform a wide range of missions.

Together, the three vessels provide a balanced mix of combat power, maritime domain awareness and operational support, reinforcing India's position as a leading maritime power in the region.