Indian Navy’s missile destroyer warship 'Surat' unveiled

Indian Navy's latest, under-construction guided missile destroyer, 'Surat', was unveiled by Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, at a vibrant ceremony in the city of Surat. Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of the Naval Staff, and senior dignitaries and officials from the State Government and the Indian Navy were also present at the ceremony.

ભારતીય નૌસેનાએ સુરતની સમૃદ્ધ સમુદ્રી વિરાસત અને શિપ બિલ્ડીંગ ક્ષેત્રે મેળવેલ સિદ્ધિઓના સન્માનમાં ‘પ્રોજેક્ટ 15B’ અંતર્ગત નિર્માણ પામી રહેલ યુધ્ધજહાજનું નામ સુરત રાખ્યું છે. આજે આ યુધ્ધજહાજના ક્રેસ્ટનું અનાવરણ સુરત ખાતે કરવામાં આવ્યું તે ગુજરાત માટે એક ઐતિહાસિક ક્ષણ છે.

જે… pic.twitter.com/BNLmEnVVsn

— Bhupendra Patel (@Bhupendrapbjp) November 6, 2023

The crest of Surat depicts the famous lighthouse at Hazira (Surat), located at the southern entrance of the Gulf of Khambhat. Built-in 1836, this lighthouse was one of the first lighthouses in India. The Asiatic lion on the crest, which is also the state animal of Gujarat, symbolizes the ship's majesty and strength.

Missile destroyer equipped with latest warfare tech

Equipped with the latest advancements in naval warfare technology and combat capabilities, the warship Surat stands as a powerful embodiment of the navy's commitment to maritime security and national defense. This is well depicted by the wavy sea depicted on the crest.

On the threshold of joining the Indian Navy's fleet, Surat promises to serve as a formidable sentinel, safeguarding the nation's maritime frontiers and upholding its strategic interests in the region
Named after the vibrant city of Surat, renowned for its rich maritime history and shipbuilding legacy, the warship Surat also embodies the enterprising and self-reliant spirit of its namesake.

The fourth ship of the indigenously designed and constructed Project 15B (Vishakhapatnam Class) destroyers, Surat, represents a remarkable leap in naval technology and capabilities.

Block construction methodology

The ship has been constructed using innovative block construction methodology, wherein the ship's hull has been assiduously assembled at distinct geographical locations before being integrated at the Mazagaon Dock Limited (MDL) in Mumbai. While also highlighting intricate precision and engineering excellence, this methodology underscores the growing refinement of India's shipbuilding prowess. Project 15B follows the success of Project 15A (Kolkata Class) and serves as a testament to India's steadily growing naval prowess.

The construction of the warship Surat exemplifies the nation's dedication to indigenous, cutting-edge maritime technology and commitment to strategic military advancements. Slated to join active service next year, Surat and her able-bodied crew will serve the nation proudly in the decades to come, said officials.

(With ANI inputs)