Indian Navy Eyes Next-Gen Project 18 Destroyers with Anti-Ballistic Missile Systems and Drone Launch Capabilities

The Indian Navy is poised to take a significant step towards modernizing its fleet by seeking approval from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) to construct 8 to 10 advanced Project 18 class destroyers.

These cutting-edge warships are envisioned to be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including anti-ballistic missile systems and the capability to launch drones, further bolstering India's maritime defence capabilities.

Emerging concept details provide a tantalizing glimpse into the formidable capabilities of these Project 18 class warships. A promotional video released last year showcased a graphical representation of a potential design, highlighting a striking canister-based universal Vertical Launch System (VLS) configuration.

This innovative design incorporates an impressive 144 missile cells, arranged strategically in a three 6×4 VLS 2 layout, positioned both at the bow and aft of the vessel.

Beyond the VLS, these warships are also set to feature eight slant launchers situated behind the main radar, potentially earmarked for the deployment of the potent BrahMos-2 anti-ship missile.

Additionally, the integration of the PGLRSAM interceptor missile, with its impressive 250 km range, will significantly enhance the warships' defensive capabilities.

As the successors to the P-15 Bravo class, or the P-15B program, the Project 18 class destroyers are anticipated to be a game-changer for the Indian Navy. Their addition to the fleet is expected to provide a substantial boost to the country's maritime security and strategic advantage in the region.

 

[Radium]

How our rivals equip their destroyers should not dictate our requirements but our own needs should. Most of the nations who have heavily armed destroyers have the necessary funding to back them up. This is not our case where projects drag on sometimes decades because of cost.

Even in current scenario our P-15 class destroyers are more than a match for anything that China or Pakistan has due to the overwhelming superiority of Brahmos. One hit on any destroyer and it will go down, same will be the case with our destroyers when enemy will have weapons which surpass our defenses.

Here having destroyers with adequate weapons and more numbers will always be better than limited heavily armed destroyers.

The confidence of Indians is surprising. What is the range of the BrahMos missile? Do you have any way to bring the enemy's destroyer into your range?