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Context:

• On 12 March 2025, INS Imphal arrived at Port Louis Mauritius.
• INS Imphal  participated in the 57th Mauritius National Day celebrations.
• The visit shows that India is committed to maritime security & regional cooperation.
• This visit aligns with India’s Neighbourhood 1st policy & SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.

About INS Imphal

• Type: it is a Visakhapatnam class under Project 15B.
• It is a guided missile destroyer of the Indian Navy.
• It was Commissioned in December 2023.
• It is India’s 3rd indigenous stealth destroyer.

Construction

• It was Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)

Key Features of INS Imphal

• It has BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for precision strikes.
• It has also Barak 8 surface to air missiles for robust aerial defense.
• It has 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mount & AK 630 CIWS for close range defense.
• Advanced Sensor & Radar Systems:
  • It has Multi Function Surveillance & Threat Alert Radar for advanced surveillance.
  • It has also Electronic warfare suites for improved defense.
  • Towed array sonar for underwater surveillance.
• Stealth Capabilities:
  • It is Designed with low radar cross-section. This enhances its ability to operate undetected by enemy radar systems.
• Enhanced Mobility & Endurance:
  • It is Powered by 4 gas turbines. This enables speeds over 30 knots.
  • Operational range: 4000 nautical miles.
• Helicopter & UAV Operations:
  • It can carry 2 multi role helicopters (including MH-60R Seahawks).
  • It supports unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations for reconnaissance.

Strategic Importance

• The visit to Mauritius aligns with India’s broader strategic goals in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• It Enhances India’s partnerships with neighboring nations in maritime security & defense cooperation.

What is project 15

Source: DD