INS Surat Anchors Pride: Gujarat’s Maritime Marvel Docks at Hazira

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In a first-ever milestone on the occasion of Gujarat Foundation Day, the Indian Navy's advanced stealth-guided missile destroyer INS Surat has embarked on its maiden visit to Hazira Port, Surat. The presence of this powerful warship, whose name commemorates the city itself, has been hailed as a proud testament to Gujarat's historic maritime tradition and India's burgeoning naval power.

Key Highlights:

INS Surat, the fourth and last of the Navy's Project 15B Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, arrived at Hazira Port for the first time on May 1, 2025, amidst Gujarat's statehood celebrations.

The vessel was given a ceremonial reception, a water cannon salute, and colourful cultural performances by children dressed in naval uniform, giving the event a patriotic touch.

Top naval officials, MPs Govind Dholakia and Mukesh Dalal, and city dignitaries hailed the occasion as one of great pride, highlighting Surat's rich tradition in ship-building and sea trade.

INS Surat represents India's self-sufficiency, constructed virtually wholly with native technology at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai. It is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, weaponry, and aviation facilities, such as the capacity to fly helicopters like Chetak, ALH, Sea King, and MH-60R.

With BrahMos cruise missiles and Barak-8 MRSAMs, the destroyer can carry out anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare, depicting India's devotion to maritime security.

The two-day halt of the ship in Hazira enables invitees and officials to visit the ship, further affirming Surat's increasing prominence in India's defense map as well as honoring the city's long-lasting maritime heritage.

Sources: Times of India, DeshGujarat, Loktej