New Delhi: Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) supplied 5,700 tonnes of specialised defence-grade steel for three newly commissioned Indian Navy vessels, strengthening India’s maritime capabilities and supporting the country’s defence indigenisation efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned the advanced stealth frigate INS Dunagiri, the anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft INS Agray and the survey vessel INS Sanshodhak at a ceremony held at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata on June 21, 2026.
SAIL supplied the entire steel requirement for the three naval platforms. The company manufactured the specialised DMR 249A grade hot-rolled sheets and plates at its Bokaro, Bhilai and Rourkela steel plants.
The development further strengthens India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. SAIL has emerged as a key supplier of specialised steel for critical naval projects over the years.
SAIL naval steel strengthens defence self-reliance
SAIL expanded its production capacity for defence-grade plates to meet rising demand from the armed forces. The company focused on boosting output at the Special Plate Plant of the Rourkela Steel Plant to support future naval requirements.
The company previously supplied specialised steel for India’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. In addition, it provided steel for Project 17A stealth frigates INS Nilgiri, INS Himgiri and INS Udaygiri. Several other naval vessels, including INS Ajay, INS Nistar and INS Anjadeep, also use SAIL-manufactured defence steel.
SAIL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Ashok Kumar Panda said the company remains committed to supporting India’s defence sector through advanced manufacturing capabilities. He added that enhanced production of DMR-grade plates protects India’s strategic independence and showcases the company’s technical expertise.
The successful commissioning of the three naval vessels marks another milestone for India’s maritime strength. It also highlights the growing role of indigenous manufacturing in strengthening national security and reducing dependence on imports.
