INS BRAHMAPUTRA (Syllabus GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: Indian Navy warship INS Brahmaputra suffered significant damage due to a fire at Mumbai's Naval Dockyard. During the incident, the frigate listed heavily to the port side.

INS Brahmaputra

• Origin of the Name: The name “Brahmaputra” is inspired by the prominent river flowing through Assam, India.
• Significance: The river is revered for its cultural and ecological importance.
• Representation of Naval Prowess: It embodies the nation’s naval strength and maritime spirit.
• The Brahmaputra-Class Frigate:

oFirst of Its Class: INS Brahmaputra is the inaugural vessel of the Brahmaputra-class guided-missile frigates.

oIndigenous Shipbuilding: Represents India’s advancing self-reliance in naval construction.

oVersatile Maritime Operations: Designed for a wide range of operations from coastal defense to blue-water missions.

oDimensions and Size: Displacement of 5,300 tonnes, 125 meters in length, and a 14.4-meter beam.

• Capabilities:

oAdvanced Sensors and Weaponry: Equipped with modern sensors, medium-range and close-range guns, and various missiles.

oHelicopter Operations: Capable of operating Seaking and Chetak helicopters.

oMulti-Role Functionality: Effective in surface warfare, air defense, and anti-submarine operations.

oStrategic Asset: A crucial component of the Indian Navy’s strategic capabilities.