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PM Modi commissions INS Kolkata

by IBNS 16 Aug 2014, 09:28 am

Mumbai, Aug 16 (IBNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inducted Indias largest indigenously-built stealth destroyer INS Kolkata at the naval base in Mumbai.

With an operating range of 15,000 km, INS Kolkata was built at the Mumbai-based Mazgaon Docks, a defence public sector unit (PSU).

Congratulating the nation for the new Kolkata class warship that joined the Indian Navy, Modi said: “Strong defence ensures no war. No country will dare challenge India. INS Kolkata is the biggest indigenous project…It has proved our defence capabilities sending a message around the globe.”

The PM said the newly-inducted warship would guarantee the security of the nation. “INS Kolkata is a symbol of self-reliance. Ensuring maritime security will help India’s trade too,” he said at the occasion.

INS Kolkata is equipped to play many roles. It has an in-built anti-submarine capability and can take on an anti-ship missile and fighter aircraft.

It is the first Indian ship to be armed with the land attack and anti-ship Brahmos missile manufactured in India with Russian collaboration. These capabilities give INS Kolkata, an ability to operate without supporting fleet of ships.

“We can guarantee peace if our forces are modernised…Forces should never feel ill-equipped,” said Modi.