The Indian Navy’s stealth frigate, INS Nilgiri, has secured a major morale-boosting victory at Exercise Kakadu 2026 in Australia, clinching the prestigious Kakadu Shield Trophy during the harbor phase sporting fixtures.

The achievement was highlighted by the Indian Navy on X (formerly Twitter), celebrating the crew's success as they transition into the high-intensity sea phase of the multilateral exercise.

Currently deployed to the Western Pacific, INS Nilgiri is representing India in the Royal Australian Navy's premier maritime exercise.

The mission aims to bolster interoperability, cooperation, and maritime understanding among participating navies, reinforcing India's role as a key security partner across the Indo-Pacific.

The sporting victory comes as the Navy prepares for a significant domestic milestone: the commissioning of its latest stealth frigate, Taragiri (F41), on April 3.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to preside over the ceremony, which officials describe as a "powerful testament" to India's journey toward naval self-reliance.

Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) under Project 17A, the 6,670-tonne Taragiri is the fourth vessel of its class.

Boasting over 75% indigenous content, the warship features advanced stealth technology, modern combat systems, and multi-role capabilities—including surface-to-surface missiles and anti-submarine warfare suites.

The dual developments of international competitive success and the induction of home-grown platforms underscore the Indian Navy’s evolution into a combat-ready, Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) force dedicated to safeguarding regional waters.

Source: ANI