10
Mumbai: Artificial intelligence and machine learning are increasingly shaping the Indian Navy’s new operational capabilities, moving from theory to frontline applications. INS Surat’s combat deployment during Operation Sindur has emerged as a key indicator of this change, with this modern destroyer employing intelligent systems under real operational conditions in the Arabian Sea.
INS Surat was commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2025 at the Mumbai Port. This warship is the final ship of the Visakhapatnam class under Project 15B and is named after the historic port city of Gujarat. The ship was built by Mazagon Dock Shipyards Limited with design input from the Naval Warship Design Bureau and reflects India’s increasing emphasis on indigenous capabilities and digital warfare.
INS Surat Commander Captain Sandeep Shorey acknowledged that the ship played an active role in Operation Sindoor. He said the ship demonstrated strong performance across surveillance, threat assessment and operational coordination. Officers involved in the deployment said the use of AI-based tools allowed them to process large amounts of sensor data and present clear input to commanders, increasing both the speed and accuracy of decision-making.
This is the first time that the Indian Navy has tested such technology in a real operational environment. Until now, artificial intelligence and machine learning projects have been mainly limited to policy discussions, controlled trials, and experimental platforms. Experience gained during Operation Sindoor deepened the Navy’s confidence that intelligent systems can directly enhance combat readiness.
INS Surat is often said to be the first Indian warship designed with built-in support for intelligent systems. Its onboard architecture enables the integration of AI-driven applications across navigation, sensor fusion, and battle management. The ship assists commanders by filtering complex data streams and highlighting the most relevant operational options, rather than relying solely on manual interpretation.
Beyond its digital capabilities, INS Surat remains a formidable combat platform. Displacing approximately 7,400 tons, it is powered by a gas turbine and can achieve speeds of nearly 30 knots, allowing it to sustain long-term deployments. Its weapons package includes BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Barak-8 air defense missiles, torpedoes, and high-capacity rocket launch systems. It also carries rapid-fire guns for close-range defense and supports two helicopters for surveillance and anti-submarine missions.
The broader push for artificial intelligence and machine learning in defense began in 2018, when the government tasked NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Defense to develop a roadmap.
NITI Aayog announced the National Strategy on AI and a dedicated Defense Select Committee identified priority areas for national security. Since then, the military has been mapping real-world applications where these technologies can provide tangible operational value.
For the Navy, this goes far beyond warships. Authorities are considering intelligent systems for inventory management to ensure timely availability of critical equipment. Training platforms powered by machine learning are being explored to create realistic simulations and personalized learning for sailors and officers. Predictive maintenance tools analyze sensor data to predict equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime. There are also plans to strengthen security and surveillance systems to better monitor bases and sea areas.
There is also growing recognition that this transition needs to be coordinated across services. Defense planners are advocating a tri-service approach to allow the Army, Navy, and Air Force to develop interoperable digital frameworks. The Ministry of Military Affairs, under the Chief of Defense Staff, is expected to play a central role in shaping this common strategy.
Industry and academia are seen as important partners in this transformation. Many of the AI applications identified for defense use also have high civilian relevance. Collaboration with private companies, startups, and universities is encouraged to build scalable and sustainable technologies in the country.
INS Surat, which has around 75% indigenous content, is now a symbol of this change. The performance during Operation Sindoor demonstrated that India is not only capable of building advanced warships but also integrating complex intelligent systems into frontline platforms.
As part of its recent outreach efforts, the Press Information Bureau organized a press tour in Mumbai to give journalists a first-hand look at how evolving naval capabilities are enhancing coastal security and modernizing maritime defense.
For the Indian Navy, this development is not limited to a single ship or a single operation. This marks the beginning of a long-term transformation in which artificial intelligence and machine learning will sit alongside weapons and sensors as core elements of maritime power.
