CHENNAI: The Indian Navy warship, INS Delhi, made a notable appearance in the Chennai harbour on November 23, as part of the ongoing Navy Day Celebrations for 2024. The visit was significantly marked by the organization of a special event by the Headquarters, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, which allowed 500 school children and National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets to explore the ship and learn about naval operations.
Commissioned on November 15, 1997, INS Delhi (D61) stands as a prominent guided-missile destroyer and the lead ship of its class. With a length of 163.2 meters, a maximum beam of 17.2 meters, and a displacement of 6,933 tonnes, it represents a formidable asset in the Indian Navy’s fleet. The warship is powered by four gas turbines that generate a combined output of 80,000 horsepower and includes four gas turbine generators capable of producing 4 megawatts of power.
INS Delhi is equipped with an advanced array of weaponry and sensors, which contribute to its operational effectiveness. The armament includes BrahMos surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missiles, Kashmir surface-to-air missiles (SAM), RBU 6000 anti-submarine rocket launchers, and Varunastra torpedoes, reflecting the ship’s technological sophistication and combat readiness.
During the visit, attendees were given guided tours of the ship, which provided them with insight into the daily lives and duties of naval personnel. The initiative aimed to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Indian Navy’s crucial role in protecting the nation’s maritime interests.
Highlighting the occasion was the felicitation of JC Simon Chera, a centenarian and former sailor of INS Delhi, who was celebrated for his service and contributions to the Navy.
As the flagship of the Eastern Fleet, INS Delhi has engaged in various prestigious multilateral military exercises including MILAN, MALABAR, and JIMEX, in addition to bilateral exercises, demonstrating its versatility and operational capabilities. The ship has undergone considerable upgrades in recent years, such as the replacement of its Kh-35E Uran missiles with the more advanced BrahMos missiles and the installation of a new Fregat M2EM radar system.
The Navy Day celebrations included prior events, such as a visit organized on November 24 for veterans, serving officers, sailors, and Defence civilians, along with their families, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to honoring its personnel and fostering community engagement.
