India’s maritime strength just got a solid boost. Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has once again proven its critical role in national defence. The Maharatna PSU supplied 100% of the special-grade steel for two major naval milestones—INS Ajay and INS Nistar—launched in July 2025.
Forging the Future of Naval Strength
SAIL is not just a steelmaker. It is a strategic defence partner.
With its supply of advanced DMR-grade steel, SAIL has helped bring two significant ships to life—INS Ajay, an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), and INS Nistar, India’s first indigenously designed Diving Support Vessel (DSV).
Both vessels showcase India’s self-reliance and engineering excellence in defence manufacturing.
INS Ajay, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), is the final addition to the eight-vessel ASW-SWC series. These shallow water crafts are vital to the Indian Navy’s underwater surveillance and coastal protection strategy.
SAIL provided the entire requirement of special DMR-grade steel plates. These plates ensure stealth, strength, and durability in harsh marine conditions. This marks a major win for defence indigenization.
INS Nistar: A Lifesaver Beneath the Waves
Commissioned by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. (HSL), INS Nistar is a game-changer in undersea operations. It will lead deep-sea rescue missions, support submarine recovery, and conduct long-duration diving operations.
SAIL’s steel has once again played a crucial role. The company supplied the full quantity of special-grade plates for this landmark project. Every plate used in Nistar strengthens the foundation of Indian naval innovation.
SAIL’s Defence Commitment: Beyond Steel
SAIL’s contribution goes far beyond raw material. Each ship built with SAIL steel embodies precision, performance, and patriotism.
By supporting key defence projects, SAIL has become an essential part of the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. Its steel is now embedded in aircraft carriers, submarines, missile launchers, and frontline warships.
Trusted Partner for Self-Reliance
According to the Press Information Bureau, SAIL continues to supply critical-grade steel for various defence and space projects.
Its products meet stringent specifications from the Indian Navy, DRDO, ISRO, and other strategic sectors. With each successful delivery, SAIL reinforces India’s journey toward full defence self-sufficiency.
Key Milestones in 2025
- July 2025: INS Ajay launched by GRSE, built entirely with SAIL’s DMR-grade steel.
- July 2025: INS Nistar commissioned by HSL, with 100% steel supplied by SAIL.
These milestones are not just about ships. They are about the Indian defence ecosystem coming together to build, innovate, and protect.
Steel That Builds a Nation
From the outer hull to internal structural reinforcements, every inch of SAIL’s steel contributes to national security. The quality of these steel plates ensures high resilience, corrosion resistance, and extended service life.
In an age of geopolitical uncertainty, such home-grown capabilities are more vital than ever.
Conclusion: SAIL’s Role in a Stronger Navy
SAIL is not just powering projects. It is empowering India.
INS Ajay and INS Nistar represent what India can achieve when public sector excellence meets strategic intent. With every project, SAIL reaffirms its position as the backbone of India’s defence manufacturing.
As India moves forward in securing its waters and asserting its presence on the global stage, SAIL’s steel will remain a silent but strong contributor.