On April 1, 2010, Elizabeth Antony, wife of Indian Defence Minister, A.K. Antony launched locally produced naval destroyer, INS Chennai. The ship was launched at the Mazagaon Docks in Mumbai. Built under the codename, Project 15 Alpha, the 163 meter long ship is the third destroyer produced by India. It weighs over 6000 tonnes.
INS Chennai is equipped with state of the art weapons including 16 Brahmos missiles and torpedoes, the Humsa asdic and Ellora electronic struggle suite. The ship has advanced stealth features, action information system, a comprehensive auxiliary control system, high quality modular living spaces, advanced power distribution system and many other features. Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Nirmal Verma, was present at the event.
Mr. Antony said that after 26/11 it has become very important to protect India’s coastline. He also said that the Defence Shipyards is performing well but they would have to further enhance their capability to the meet the requirement of the armed forces. He also said that, if necessary Government would also involve the private shipyards to build naval ships.