Syllabus: GS-III
Source: Indian Express
Subject: Internal Security.
Topic: Security challenges and their management in border areas.
Issue: INS Imphal induction into Indian Navy.
Context: INS Imphal (Pennant D68), the third of four warships of Project 15B, is set to be commissioned into the Indian Navy.
Synopsis:
- INS Imphal, the third ship of Project 15B and part of the Visakhapatnam class, was commissioned on December 26, 2023.
Technological Characteristics:
- Visakhapatnam-class destroyers are Propelled by a ‘combined gas and gas’ (COGAG) configuration, reaching a max speed of 30 knots and a range of 4000 nautical miles.
- Crewed by around 350 personnel with superior ergonomics and habitability.
Armament and Capabilities:
- Equipped with BrahMos and Barak-8 missiles for long-range engagement.
- Main gun, AK-630 guns for close-point engagement, torpedo launchers, and anti-submarine rocket launchers.
Strategic Significance:
- Visakhapatnam-class destroyers operate as independent offense platforms and offer strategic advantages in naval operations.
- Incorporates stealth features, making it difficult to detect, and a high indigenous component providing a strategic edge.
Naval Operations:
- Guided-missile destroyers play a crucial role in protecting fleets and carrier battle groups.
- Designed for anti-aircraft, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, contributing significantly to offensive naval operations.
Background:
What is Project 15 B?
- The Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, commonly known as the P-15 Bravo-class destroyers or just P-15B, are a series of guided-missile warships currently under construction for the Indian Navy.
- The P-15 class is an updated version of its forerunner, the Kolkata class, with enhanced stealth, mechanization, and armament capabilities.
- Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) is building four ships as part of the Make in India project.
- INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao were commissioned earlier, and INS Surat is yet to be commissioned.
