SAIL Powers INS Nilgiri with Indigenous Steel for a Stronger Navy
In a significant step towards supporting India’s defense capabilities, Steel Authority of India Limited, the largest public sector steelmaker in India, has successfully supplied the entire 4,000 metric tons of special steel required for the construction of INS Nilgiri, an indigenously built guided missile frigate.
The steel supplied by SAIL for the INS Nilgiri includes DMR 249A grade hot-rolled sheets and plates, all sourced from SAIL's key steel plants located in Bokaro, Bhilai, and Rourkela. Specifically, SAIL’s Bokaro Steel Plant contributed around 2,000 metric tons of HR sheets and plates, while the Bhilai Steel Plant and Rourkela Steel Plant supplied 1,600 metric tons and 400 metric tons, respectively.
INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Nilgiri-class Project P17A frigates, is a testament to India's growing naval prowess. This advanced warship, measuring 149 meters in length, displaces approximately 6,670 metric tons, and is capable of reaching speeds of up to 28 knots. Constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, INS Nilgiri forms part of a series of seven stealth frigates ordered by the Indian Navy. Four of these ships are being built by MDL, while three are under construction at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers.
SAIL’s role in supplying all the steel for the P17A project is an immense contribution to the defense sector. This project is part of India's broader initiative to produce indigenous defense equipment and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
