INS Imphal takes the helm as Indian Navy celebrates advanced destroyer's crest reveal

India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Hon'ble Chief Minister of Manipur Shri N Biren Singh unveiled the crest of Yard 12706 (Imphal), the latest Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyer, at a ceremony attended by Gen Anil Chauhan, CDS, and Adm R Hari Kumar, CNS. The event, held in New Delhi, celebrated the indigenous naval prowess and historical significance. 

The vessel, delivered to the Indian Navy on October 20, 2023, recently achieved a significant milestone by successfully firing an Extended Range BrahMos missile during pre-commissioning trials, emphasizing its advanced capabilities.   

Indigenous technological marvel 

Imphal, designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, represents a pinnacle of indigenous shipbuilding. With a displacement of 7,400 tons and an overall length of 164 meters, it stands as one of the world's most technologically advanced warships. The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles, and torpedoes. 

Boasting a remarkable 75% indigenous content, Imphal showcases the capabilities of Indian manufacturers, with contributions from BEL Bangalore, BrahMos Aerospace New Delhi, Larsen & Toubro Mumbai, and BHEL Haridwar. 

Record-breaking timeline 

The keel for Imphal was laid on May 19, 2017, and the ship was launched on April 20, 2019. Remarkably, Imphal underwent a comprehensive schedule of trials, both in harbor and at sea, leading to its delivery on October 20, 2023—setting a record for the shortest time taken for any indigenous destroyer.

The crest design features the Kangla Palace and 'Kangla-Sa.' Kangla Palace, a historical site in Manipur, is depicted on the left, while the mythical 'Kangla-Sa,' a dragon-headed lion symbolizing protection, graces the right. 'Kangla-Sa' also serves as the state emblem of Manipur, adding cultural and historical depth to the ship's identity. 

Historical naming and maritime tradition 

Imphal is the first capital warship named after a city in the North-Eastern region, reflecting the maritime tradition of naming naval ships after prominent cities, mountain ranges, rivers, and islands. The President of India approved the name on April 16, 2019, emphasizing the historic significance of Manipur. 

The unveiling of Imphal’s crest pays tribute to the sacrifice made by the people of Manipur in the pursuit of India's independence, sovereignty, and security. This ceremony marks a significant moment in India's naval history, showcasing technological prowess and historical reverence in one grand gesture.