Why in News?
The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) supplied 5,700 tonnes of indigenous defence grade steel for three Indian Navy ships, INS Dunagiri, INS Agray, and INS Sanshodhak, commissioned on 21 June 2026. The move strengthens India’s defence indigenisation under Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.
Key Highlights
- SAIL supplied 100% of the special steel requirement (5,700 tonnes) for INS Dunagiri (Stealth Frigate), INS Agray (ASW Shallow Water Craft), and INS Sanshodhak (Survey Vessel)
- Steel supplied DMR 249A grade hot rolled sheets and plates (Defence grade steel).
- Manufactured at Bokaro Steel Plant, Bhilai Steel Plant, and Rourkela Steel Plant
- Production of DMR grade plates has been expanded, especially at the Special Plate Plant, Rourkela, to meet defence needs.
What is DMR 249A Steel?
- DMR (Defence Metallurgical Research) 249A is a high strength, low alloy steel developed for naval warships.
- Features: High tensile strength, Excellent weldability, High toughness, Corrosion resistance in marine environments, and Better survivability under combat conditions.
- Other Major Naval Platforms Using SAIL Steel: INS Vikrant, INS Nilgiri, INS Himgiri, INS Udaygiri, INS Ajay, INS Nistar, and INS Anjadeep
Significance
- Enhances self reliance in defence manufacturing.
- Reduces dependence on imported naval steel.
- Strengthens India’s indigenous shipbuilding capability.
- Supports strategic maritime security and blue water naval ambitions.
- Demonstrates collaboration between public sector steel manufacturing and defence production.
[2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?
[A] Amphibious warfare ship
[B] Nuclear-powered submarine
[C] Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
[D] Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier