Rajnath highlights Navy’s role in securing trade routes
Underlining that 95 per cent of the country’s trade, including energy supplies, is conducted through sea, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday noted the Indian Navy’s indispensable role in securing commercial shipping lanes and oil tankers against emerging maritime threats.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of Indian Navy Ship (INS) Taragiri here, the Defence Minister said the Indian Navy continuously maintains its presence in the Indian Ocean — whether it is the Persian Gulf or the Malacca Strait.
His comments assume significance following the disruption of oil supplies and blockage of oil tankers in view of the prevailing situation in West Asia.
According to him, a strong and capable navy is not an option for the country, but a necessity. “There are many sensitive points in the sea where our Navy has continuously made its active presence to ensure the smooth supply of goods. Whenever there is a situation of tension there, the Indian Navy has ensured the security of our commercial ships and oil tankers,” Rajnath Singh said.
The Indian Navy has proven that it is not only capable of protecting the interests of the country, but if necessary, can also take every step to ensure the safety of its citizens and trade routes around the world, he added.
Citing history, the defence minister said that without strengthening the naval power, no country can be considered powerful in the right sense, and therefore, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi talks about Viksit Bharat by 2047, the basis of marine power becomes very important.
As the fourth platform under Project 17A, Taragiri is a 6,670-tonne warship built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai, showcasing advanced design and engineering excellence.
The warship features a sleeker structure with a significantly reduced radar cross-section, enabling stealth operations and enhanced survivability in complex maritime environments.
With indigenous content exceeding 75 per cent, the ship highlights the maturity of India’s domestic defence ecosystem, involving over 200 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and supporting thousands of jobs.
Taragiri is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, offering high-speed and high-endurance capabilities for diverse naval operations.
The frigate is equipped with advanced weapon systems, including supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, medium-range surface-to-air missiles and a specialised anti-submarine warfare suite. These systems are integrated through a modern combat management system, enabling swift and precise responses to emerging threats.
Apart from combat roles, Taragiri is designed for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, enhancing its operational versatility in both peace and conflict scenarios.
