Indian Navy Inducts Stealth Frigate ‘Udaygiri’ with Pennant F35 under Project 17A

The Indian Navy’s maritime strength received a major boost with the induction of Udaygiri, a state-of-the-art stealth frigate delivered on 1 July 2025. Contrary to some misconceptions, the F35 here refers to the ship’s pennant number, not the famous fighter jet.

Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Udaygiri — the second of seven Project 17A frigates — was handed over in a record 37 months, underscoring India’s progress toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

In naval parlance, a pennant number identifies a ship and its class; here, ‘F’ stands for frigate, and 35 is its unique designation.

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About Udaygiri

The frigate, also known as Yard 12652, is part of the advanced Project 17A, a follow-on to the Shivalik-class frigates. Designed for blue-water operations, it is capable of tackling both conventional and unconventional maritime threats.

Key specifications:

• Length: 142.5 m; Width: 16.9 m

• Displacement: 6,342 tonnes

• Speed: Up to 30 knots

• Propulsion: Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) with controllable pitch propellers and Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).

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Stealth and Technology

Compared to earlier classes, the Project 17A frigates boast enhanced stealth and modern weaponry. The hull is 4.5% larger than the Shivalik class and integrates advanced stealth features:

• Reduced radar cross-section through reshaped superstructure and radar-absorbent materials.

• Concealed weapons and clean deck profile minimize detection.

• Noise-reduction achieved through hydrodynamic hull design, quiet propellers, and vibration-dampening mounts.

• Infrared signatures cut using innovative exhaust cooling techniques to lower heat plumes.

The Udaygiri’s delivery marks a significant milestone for the Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding and showcases India’s growing expertise in building sophisticated, multi-role combat vessels. The remaining frigates under Project 17A are under construction at MDL, Mumbai, and GRSE, Kolkata.