According to a release from the Ministry of Defence, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Rear Admiral Garin Golding, the Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy, inspected the Indian Navy’s newest locally constructed destroyer, “INS Surat,” at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on Thursday. January 15, 2025, saw the commissioning of the Indian Navy’s INS Surat. It is the Indian Navy’s newest indigenous guided missile destroyer. The Indian Navy claims that the ship, which was created by the Warship Design Bureau, is a magnificent illustration of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”
The Navy ship was constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders in Mumbai and has a more than 75% indigenous content. Vice-Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, greeted Prime Minister Luxon warmly upon his arrival. The warship’s complex design, state-of-the-art technologies, and powerful capabilities were thoroughly explained to the guests, providing an insight into its vital role in enhancing national maritime security. The Royal New Zealand Navy Ship HMNZS Te Kaha will be in Mumbai from March 20 to 24 concurrently with Prime Minister Luxon’s visit.
Commodore Rodger Ward and Rear Admiral Garin Golding visited Headquarters Western Naval Command in Mumbai, marking a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between the Royal New Zealand Navy and the Indian Navy. Golding discussed strategic naval engagements, technical support for HMNZS Te Kaha’s visit, and laid a wreath at the Naval Dockyard. Activities include cross-deck visits, sports fixtures, and social events.
