Visakhapatnam, January 5 (IANS). Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma visited the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet (Eastern Sword) in Visakhapatnam. During this, he inspected the indigenously built advanced stealth frigate INS Himgiri and a Kalvari class submarine.
The visit was an important opportunity to closely understand the growing indigenous capabilities of the Indian Navy and the multi-mission strength of modern combat platforms. The Governor was given a detailed briefing by senior officers of the Eastern Naval Command about the technical features, operational capabilities and strategic importance of these warships.
INS Himgiri, which belongs to the Neelachal class, is the epitome of completely indigenous design and construction. The Governor was informed about the frigate’s state-of-the-art stealth design, integrated mast system, advanced radar, sonar and electronic warfare systems. Also, emphasis was laid on the capabilities of its multi-role combat system, which can play an effective role in maritime, air and anti-submarine warfare.
During a tour of the Kalvari class submarine, the Governor was briefed about its stealth features, air-independent propulsion (AIP) system (in an upcoming upgrade) and ability to remain underwater for long periods. The class is one of India’s first indigenously built Scorpene-class submarines, developed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL).
The Governor appreciated the indigenous technologies used in these platforms and said that this is a historic step towards India’s increasing self-reliance and indigenization in the defense sector.
During the visit, the Commanding Officer of the Eastern Fleet told the Governor that these warships not only play an important role in protecting India’s maritime borders, but are also helpful in strengthening India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean region. INS Himgiri and Kalvari class submarines are fully prepared to face the challenges of modern warfare.
At the conclusion of the tour, Jishnu Dev Verma praised the bravery, dedication and professionalism of the officers and sailors of the Indian Navy. He expressed his deep gratitude for the important role being played by the Eastern Naval Command and the Eastern Fleet.
–IANS
SCH/ABM
