Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to advancing India’s defence indigenization by supplying 4,000 tonnes of special steel plates for the construction of the seventh frigate ship under the indigenous P17 A Project for the Indian Navy. This contribution solidifies SAIL’s crucial role in strengthening the nation’s maritime security.
The upcoming launch of the seventh frigate ship, the fourth warship built by Mazagon Dock Ltd, is scheduled for September 1, 2023, a momentous occasion to be graced by the presence of Jagdeep Dhankar, Vice President of India. This event marks a significant milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence capabilities.
SAIL’s involvement in the P17 A Project is not limited to this recent contribution; the company had previously supplied an equal quantity of special steel for the construction of the sixth frigate, named ‘Vindhyagiri’, which was recently launched by Droupadi Murmu, President of India. This consistent support underscores SAIL’s enduring dedication to the country’s defence needs.
The P17 A Project, a cornerstone of India’s naval capabilities, encompasses the construction of four ships by Mazagon Dock Ltd and three ships by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE). The remarkable progress in this venture has seen three ships launched by Mazagon Dock Ltd between September 2019 and September 2022, while GRSE successfully launched three ships between December 2020 and August 2023. SAIL’s contributions in terms of steel supply for these vessels amount to an impressive 28,000 tonnes, highlighting the company’s prowess in delivering high-end products for critical applications.
SAIL’s history of steadfast support for India’s defence sector extends beyond the P17 A Project. The company has played an integral role in providing steel for various defence projects, including the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, warships such as INS Udaygiri and INS Surat, and the artillery gun Dhanush, among others. SAIL’s consistent commitment to defence indigenization reflects its dedication to strengthening the nation’s security infrastructure.
As India continues its journey towards self-reliance in defence production, SAIL’s contributions in supplying critical materials like special steel plates have proven invaluable. The partnership between SAIL and India’s defence sector remains a crucial driving force behind the nation’s pursuit of self-sufficiency and security on the seas and beyond.
