The crest of Indian Navy latest, under-construction, guided missile destroyer Surat, was unveiled by Shri Bhupendra Patel, Cm of Gujarat, at a vibrant ceremony in city of Surat, in presence of Adm R Hari Kumar CNS and senior dignitaries and officials from State Government and Indian Navy. The crest depicts famous lighthouse at Hazira (Surat), located at southern entrance of Gulf of Khambhat. Built in 1836, this lighthouse was one of the first lighthouses in India. The Asiatic lion on the crest, which is also the state animal of Gujarat, symbolises ship’s majesty and strength. Equipped with latest advancements in naval warfare technology and combat capabilities, warship Surat stands as a powerful embodiment of navy’s commitment to maritimesecurity and national defence. This is well depicted by wavy sea on the crest. On the threshold of joining Indian Navy’s fleet, Surat promises to serve as a formidable sentinel, safeguarding nation’s maritime frontiers and upholding its strategic interests in region. Named after the vibrant city of Surat, renowned for its rich maritime history and shipbuilding legacy, warship Surat also embodies enterprising and self- reliant spirit of its namesake. The fourth ship of indigenously designed and constructed Project 15B (Vishakhapatnam Class) destroyers, Surat represents a remarkable leap in naval technology and capabilities. The ship has been constructed using innovative block construction methodology, wherein ship's hull has been assiduously assembled at distinct geographical locations before being integrated at MDL in Mumbai. While also highlighting intricate precision and engineering excellence, this methodology underscores the growing refinement of India’s shipbuilding prowess. Slated to join active service next year, Surat and her able bodied crew will serve the nation proudly in decades to come. In addition to CM and CNS, the vibrant ceremony of unveiling of ship’s crest was attended by VAdm Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, FOCINC WNC, RAdm Anil Jaggi, FOGNA, senior officers of Indian Navy and several luminaries of Surat city from the political and commercial fields.
