INS Imphal Joins Navy with 8 Barak and 16 BrahMos Missiles, Boosting Indian Ocean Defense Against China
In a bid to enhance India’s maritime capabilities amid increasing incursions by China in the Indian Ocean, INS Imphal was commissioned today (December 26) in the Indian Navy’s fleet. INS Imphal will be operational in the Mumbai Dockyard. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will be present during the commissioning ceremony. The warship is set to join the Western Naval Command for active duty.
Advanced Warfare Arsenal on INS Imphal
Equipped with a formidable arsenal, INS Imphal boasts missiles, including 8 BrahMos, 16 BrahMos anti-ship sensor missiles, surveillance radar, 76 mm Rapid Mount Gun, anti-submarine capabilities, and torpedoes. The construction of Imphal was undertaken by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), located in Mumbai Dockyard, ensuring that 75% of its components are indigenous.
INS Imphal’s Critical Role in India’s Maritime Defense
INS Imphal holds significance in India’s naval history, serving as a tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of Manipur in the country’s struggle for independence. It is the third in the category of destroyer warships designed by the Indian Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design. The ship was approved by the President on April 16, 2019.
Indigenous Construction and Swift Delivery of INS Imphal
Built with indigenous steel DMR 249A, making it 75% domestically sourced, INS Imphal represents a remarkable achievement in the swift construction and testing of an Indian destroyer warship. It was launched on April 20, 2019, and its sea trials began on April 28, 2023, setting a record for a 6-month turnaround. The vessel was delivered on October 20, 2023, as part of Project 15B, following INS Visakhapatnam on November 21, 2021, and INS Mormugao on December 18, 2022.
Indian Navy’s Ambitious Fleet Expansion Plan
Currently operating 132 warships, the Indian Navy plans to have 170-175 vessels by 2035, with a focus on enhancing its guided-missile capabilities. The Kolkata-class, Delhi-class, and Rajput-class contribute to this fleet, including 11 guided-missile destroyers. However, 67 ships are yet to be fully operational, according to Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar’s vision for the Navy’s future.
