The crest of Yard 12706 (Imphal), the third in the series of Project 15B guided missile stealth destroyers built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), is scheduled to be revealed in New Delhi on Tuesday (Nov 28).
Imphal, the first indigenous destroyer with an impressively short construction and sea trial period, is slated to join the Indian Navy next month.
In adherence to maritime traditions, Indian Naval ships bear names associated with significant cities, mountain ranges, rivers, ports, and islands. Imphal, named after the historic city, is the latest technologically advanced warship and holds the distinction of being the first capital warship named after a city in the North-Eastern region. This decision was approved by the President of India on April 16, 2019.
Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and constructed by MDL, this ship is a testament to indigenous shipbuilding and stands among the most technologically advanced warships globally. With approximately 75% indigenous content, including MR SAM, BrahMos SSM, Indigenous Torpedo Tube Launchers, Anti-Submarine Indigenous Rocket Launchers, and 76 mm SRGM, the ship exemplifies India’s capabilities in advanced naval technology.
Named Imphal during its April 2019 launch, the ship was delivered by MDL to the Indian Navy on October 20, 2023. As part of its pre-commissioning trials, the ship successfully fired an Extended Range BrahMos missile, marking a crucial milestone. The Crest Unveiling Event is scheduled to take place in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Chief Minister of Manipur, and state officials.