One Sailor Missing As Damaged INS Brahmaputra Resting On Its Side
The Defense Ministry said in a statement that a fire incident happened onboard Indian Naval Ship (INS) Brahmaputra, a multi-role frigate, on the evening of July 21, 2024, while the ship was undergoing refit at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai (ND Mbi). The fire was brought under control by the ship’s crew with the assistance of firefighters from ND Mbi and other ships in the harbour by the morning of July 22. Follow-up actions, including sanitisation checks to assess residual fire risk, were conducted, the statement said.
However, in the afternoon, the ship began to list severely to its port side. Despite all efforts, the ship could not be stabilised and continued to tilt further alongside her berth. Currently, INS Brahmaputra is resting on one side. All personnel have been accounted for except one junior sailor, for whom a search is ongoing.
The ministry said the Indian Navy has ordered an inquiry to investigate the incident.
INS Brahmaputra is a part of the Brahmaputra-class guided-missile frigates, which are designed for multi-role operations. Commissioned into the Indian Navy in the early 2000s, the ship has been a vital asset in various naval operations. The Brahmaputra-class frigates are equipped with advanced radar, sonar systems, and an array of weaponry, including surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles, making them versatile and powerful in both defensive and offensive roles. They are designed for long-range missions and can operate independently or as part of a larger task force. The ships also feature facilities to support anti-submarine warfare, with torpedoes and depth charges among their arsenal.
INS Brahmaputra has been involved in numerous national and international exercises, showcasing its capabilities and contributing to maritime security. Its multi-role functionality allows it to undertake a range of operations, from escort missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The ship’s crew is trained to handle complex maritime scenarios, reflecting the vessel’s importance in the Indian Navy’s strategic framework.
