Kolkata-class

The Kolkata class, designated Project 15A, consists of three guided-missile destroyers constructed for the Indian Navy. The project was approved in 1986 as a follow-on to the Delhi class, with the design finalized in 2000 to incorporate stealth characteristics and updated systems. Mazagon Dock Limited served as the builder, commencing construction of the lead ship in 2003. The program experienced delays due to design modifications, cost escalations, and supply issues involving propellers, shafts, and the integration of the Barak 8 missile system.

The class is the first Indian-built destroyer series to feature stealth technology. The vessels utilize a combined gas and gas propulsion system and a hull design that incorporates over 2,000 modifications from the preceding Delhi class. Aviation facilities consist of a redesigned flight deck and an enclosed hangar capable of housing two helicopters, such as the Sea King or HAL Dhruv.

The sensor suite is centered on the EL/M-2248 MF-STAR AESA multi-function radar and the Thales LW-08 air search radar. Sub-surface detection is provided by the HUMSA-NG bow-mounted sonar and the Nagin active towed array sonar. The ships employ the EMCCA Mk4 combat management system, which integrates data via an Asynchronous Transfer Mode based Integrated Ship Data Network. This architecture supports network-centric warfare and Cooperative Engagement Capability, allowing multiple platforms to coordinate air defense and share sensor data in real time.

Armament includes the BrahMos supersonic missile system for anti-ship and land-attack roles, the Barak 8 surface-to-air missile system, and AK-630 close-in weapon systems. For anti-submarine warfare, the ships are equipped with torpedo tubes and RBU-6000 rocket launchers.

The three vessels of the class—Kolkata, Kochi, and Chennai—entered service between 2014 and 2016. In May 2019, two vessels demonstrated the Joint Taskforce Coordination mode during a cooperative engagement firing of the Barak 8 system. The class has participated in several international maritime exercises, including Malabar 2020 and JIMEX 2020, and has conducted joint operations with the United States Navy, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the Royal Navy.