On July 14, 2024, in Visakhapatnam, the Eastern Fleet celebrated its tactical successes at the prestigious Fleet Awards Function. This annual event honors the fleet’s exceptional performance over the past year, and this year, INS Delhi was proudly named the Best Ship of the Eastern Fleet.
Acknowledgment of Excellence
The Fleet Awards Function recognizes the outstanding performance of various ships across different categories. INS Kavaratti was honored as the Best Ship in the category of Corvettes, Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), and Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs). Additionally, INS Shivalik, INS Sumedha, and INS Sumitra were commended for their spirited efforts and tackling diverse challenges throughout the year, showcasing the fleet’s versatility and resilience.
Guests of Honour
The ceremony was graced by distinguished naval officers, including Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Naval Command, who served as the Chief Guest. Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, hosted the event, emphasizing the unity and teamwork within the fleet.
Operational Achievements and Activities
Throughout the year, the Eastern Fleet was actively engaged in operations to safeguard naval interests in and around the Indian Ocean Region. The fleet demonstrated its combat prowess through multiple successful weapon firings in aerial, surface, and subsurface domains. Collaborative efforts with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force were also notable, involving numerous joint naval exercises, amphibious operations, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercises.
Cultural Celebrations
Beyond the formal awards, the Fleet Awards Function featured a cultural program that fostered camaraderie, boosted morale, and celebrated the dedication and rich heritage of the Indian Navy. This annual event not only acknowledges remarkable naval achievements but also strengthens the Eastern Fleet’s readiness to fulfill its strategic roles.
About INS Delhi
Commissioned into the Indian Navy on November 15, 1997, INS Delhi is a formidable guided-missile frigate and the lead ship of the Delhi class. Designed by the Indian Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design and constructed by Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai, the ship boasts impressive specifications. Weighing approximately 6,200 tons and measuring 163 meters in length, INS Delhi is equipped with a variety of weaponry, including surface-to-surface missiles, surface-to-air missiles, anti-submarine torpedoes, and a main gun. Additionally, the ship features advanced electronic warfare and sensor systems, enhancing its effectiveness in diverse maritime scenarios.
INS Delhi’s recognition as the Best Ship of the Eastern Fleet underscores its excellence in operational performance and its vital role in bolstering India’s naval capabilities.