INS Visakhapatnam (D66)

History

The Indian Navy's destroyer force comprises three classes of ships: Kolkata-class, Delhi-class, and Rajput-class. The Kolkata-class represents a modern and stealthy option, while the Delhi and Rajput classes are older vessels. To address the aging issues of the Delhi and Rajput classes, the Indian Navy has introduced the Visakhapatnam class, featuring four ships. The first ship, INS Visakhapatnam, was launched in 2015 and commissioned in 2021.

INS Visakhapatnam is a formidable vessel with an 8,200-ton displacement, measuring 535 feet in length and boasting a draft of 18 feet. It utilizes a COGAG propulsion system for fuel efficiency, comprising gas turbines and diesel generators. Capable of reaching speeds exceeding 30 knots and possessing a range of up to 8,000 nautical miles, the ship is a versatile addition to the fleet.

This modern warship is equipped with advanced radar, sonar, and electronic warfare systems for detection and defense. Its weaponry includes a 76mm deck gun, Vertical Launch System for missiles, torpedo tubes, rocket launchers, and a Close-In Weapon System. With a focus on stealth and versatility, INS Visakhapatnam strengthens the Indian Navy's capabilities in keeping up with regional rivals, making it adaptable for a wide range of naval operations.

Specification

Basic

Year of Service: 2021

Origins: India

Status: In service

Crew: 300

Manufacture: Mazagon Dock Limited - India

Operator: India

Characters

Sea Bombing

Maritime bombardment/attack of surface targets/areas primarily through ship-based ballistic weapons.

Land Assault

Littoral attacks against surface targets primarily through ship-based missiles/missile weapons.

Sea Patrol

Active patrolling of critical waterways and sea areas; also serves as a local deterrent against air and maritime threats.

Airspace Denial/Deterrence

Neutralization or deterrence of flying elements by airborne missile weapon ballistics.

Fleet Support

Provide support (fire or materiel) to major surface fleets in blue water environments.

Notable Features

Main Turret

The main armament is mounted in the main turret arrangement providing enhanced protection.

Air Defense

Airborne systems warn and protect ships from airborne and low-altitude ballistic and/or missile threats.

On the horizon

The ship is granted over-the-horizon combat capability, usually provided by a launched fixed-wing/rotary-wing aircraft.

Missile weapons

The ship supports long-range missile launches to air, sea or land-based targets; typical of modern design.

Torpedo

Able to launch torpedoes at distant targets.

Anti-submarine missile

Capable of launching missile salvos against submarine threats.

Dimensions and Weight

Length: 535 feet (163.07m)

Draft: 18 feet (5.49m)

Shift: 8,200 t

Weapons

1 x 76mm OTO Melara deck gun with turret. 4 x 8 cell Vertical Launch System (VLS) for Barak 8/8ER Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM).

2 x 8 cell VLM for BrahMos anti-ship/land attack cruise missile.

4 x 53mm torpedo tubes.

2 x RBU-6000 Anti-Submarine Missile Launchers (ASROC).

4 x AK-630 Close-In Weapon System (CIWS).

Aircraft

1 or 2 medium naval helicopters operated from the stern. Typical Westland Sea King or HAL Dhruv type.