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Mid-Life Upgrade Deal for INS Beas – A Boost to Indian Navy’s Combat Fleet
Defence Ministry Signs Deal for Mid-Life Upgrade of INS Beas
The Defence Ministry recently signed a ₹313 crore deal with the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the mid-life upgrade and re-powering of the frontline frigate INS Beas. This marks an important development for enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Navy.
Overview
| Sections | Details |
|---|---|
| Profile |
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| Rationale for Mid-Life Upgrade |
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| MLU Project Breakdown |
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| Anticipated Advantages |
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| Overall Importance |
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An Overview of INS Beas
INS Beas is a Brahmaputra-class guided missile frigate belonging to the Eastern Fleet of the Indian Navy. Commissioned in 2005, it is the second naval ship to bear the name ‘Beas’, after the previous avatar – a Leopard-class frigate – was decommissioned in 1992.
Physical Attributes
With a length of 126 meters and beam width of 14.5 meters, INS Beas has a full load displacement of about 3850 tons. It was built indigenously at the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. Its design is based on the Godavari-class frigates, with certain modifications.
The frigate was originally powered by two steam turbines capable of generating speeds in excess of 30 knots. This allows it to beswift and agile during naval missions.
Basic Information about INS Beas
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Brahmaputra-class frigate |
| Building Site | Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata |
| Commission Date | 11th July, 2005 |
| Name History | Second ship in the Indian Navy to bear the name |
| Previous INS Beas | Leopard-class frigate (commissioned in 1960, scrapped in 1992) |
Capabilities
As a versatile warship, INS Beas is equipped to undertake a diverse range of naval operations including anti-aircraft and anti-ship warfare, anti-submarine warfare, maritime patrolling and surveillance.
It has an array of sensors like surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, medium and short range guns, anti-submarine rockets and torpedoes. These are managed by sophisticated tactical data systems like the Combine Operations Tactical System.
Role and Responsibilities
| Role Description | Specific Tasks |
|---|---|
| Versatile Warship | Anti-aircraft, anti-submarine, and anti-ship warfare |
| Security and Surveillance | Patrolling, surveillance, maritime security |
Significance and Operations
INS Beas plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s maritime security interests in the Indian Ocean Region. Over the years, it has been extensively deployed for multiple operational duties including fleet patrols, security of offshore assets, protection of merchant vessels and deterring asymmetric threats.
It has also represented India at multinational exercises like Malabar and participated in crucial missions like Op Rahat to evacuate Indian citizens from war-torn Yemen in 2015.
Mid-Life Upgrade of INS Beas
Definition and Role of a Frigate
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Frigate | A warship typically smaller and faster than a battleship or cruiser but larger and more heavily armed than a corvette or patrol vessel. Used for escort duties, anti-submarine warfare, anti-aircraft defense, and general-purpose naval operations. |
Need and Objectives
Naval vessels typically have a service life of about 25 years, after which a mid-life upgrade is required to enhance their capabilities as per contemporary requirements.
At 20 years of age, INS Beas will now undergo a Rs 313 crore refit aimed at strengthening its combat potential.
Details of Upgrade
The highlight of the upgrade is replacing the steam turbines with a modern diesel propulsion system. This will make the ship’s power generation more economical and efficient.
The weapons systems and sensors will also be upgraded, giving INS Beas an enhanced fighting ability. The re-powering and modifications are slated to be completed by 2026.
Timeline and Cost
The Defence Ministry has signed a Rs 313 crore deal with the CSL for executing this mid-life refit over the next 3-4 years. On completion, INS Beas will rejoin the Navy’s active fleet with renewed capabilities.
Benefits
The project entails participation of over 50 MSMEs and will generate employment for around 3500 people. Thus it will provide a boost to the indigenous ship-building industry.
It also underscores India’s Atmanirbhar vision and Make in India commitment through enhancements done by an Indian shipyard.
Final Thoughts
The upgrade of INS Beas, the first Brahmaputra-class frigate to undergo such a refit, will significantly enhance its operational abilities and lethality. This will strengthen the Indian Navy’s combat potential, enabling it to protect India’s maritime interests in the backdrop of a dynamic geopolitical environment. The renewed INS Beas will remain a formidable sentinel of the seas for many more years to come.
FAQ
Which is the most advanced frigate in India?
INS Vindhyagiri, launched in August 2023, is considered India’s most advanced indigenous frigate. It is the first of Project 17A advanced stealth frigates being built for the Indian Navy. Equipped with advanced sensors and weapons, INS Vindhyagiri will bolster India’s maritime security.
Which is the latest frigate of India?
INS Mahendragiri is the latest and most advanced stealth frigate inducted into the Indian Navy. Built under Project 17A at GRSE Kolkata, it was launched in Sept 2023. INS Mahendragiri will strengthen India’s fleet with its sophisticated design features and formidable combat capabilities.
What are the 7 ships under Project 17A?
The seven frigates being built under Project 17A are – INS Nilgiri, INS Himgiri, INS Udaygiri, INS Dunagiri, INS Taragiri, INS Vindhyagiri and INS Mahendragiri. They are named after different hill ranges of India and will all be advanced stealth frigates for the Indian Navy.
