Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has reinforced India’s push for defence indigenisation by supplying critical special-grade steel for INS Taragiri, the latest stealth frigate inducted into the Indian Navy on April 3, 2026.
INS Taragiri, the fourth vessel under the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) programme, has been constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited using nearly 4,000 tonnes of specialised steel plates supplied entirely by SAIL. The steel was manufactured across the company’s major integrated plants in Bokaro, Bhilai and Rourkela, underscoring its advanced metallurgical expertise and ability to meet stringent defence requirements.
The contribution marks another significant step in India’s efforts to achieve self-reliance in defence production under flagship initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. SAIL has consistently played a vital role in strengthening the country’s indigenous defence ecosystem by supplying high-grade steel for key naval platforms.
Notably, the company has previously provided specialised steel for the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant as well as earlier Project 17A frigates, including INS Nilgiri, INS Himgiri and INS Udaygiri.
The commissioning of INS Taragiri is seen as a milestone in India’s naval modernisation journey. It highlights the growing capabilities of domestic industries to support complex defence manufacturing, while reducing reliance on imports and enhancing strategic autonomy.
