On a crisp winter 37 years ago, on December 21, 1987, at the port of Poti in the erstwhile USSR, a mighty Kashin-Class Destroyer was commissioned into the Indian Navy. Christened INS Ranvijay, a name that means “Victorious in Battle,” this formidable warship has become an enduring symbol of strength, dedication, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
With its motto, “Sangrame Vaibhavasya”, translating to “Glorious in War,” INS Ranvijay has stood resolute, embodying the very essence of this creed. The ship, a 5,000-ton guided missile destroyer, has seen over three decades of transformation, modernization, and operational excellence, serving as one of the Indian Navy’s most versatile and dependable assets.
A Beacon of Naval Power
INS Ranvijay is not merely a warship; it is a floating fortress armed with cutting-edge weaponry and sensors that make it a force to reckon with. The destroyer boasts a comprehensive arsenal of surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, anti-aircraft and anti-missile guns, torpedoes, and anti-submarine rockets. A Kamov-28 helicopter, capable of detecting and neutralizing underwater threats, adds another lethal dimension to the ship’s capabilities.
Post-modernization, Ranvijay has seamlessly integrated advanced networked systems and improved habitability standards, enhancing both its combat efficiency and the welfare of its crew. With state-of-the-art sensors and weapons covering all domains of maritime warfare, it stands as a compact yet powerful guardian of India’s maritime frontiers.
Service Beyond Reproach
For 37 years, INS Ranvijay has been a cornerstone of the Indian Navy’s Sunrise Fleet under the Eastern Naval Command, operating from its home port of Visakhapatnam. It has participated in countless missions, from safeguarding India’s exclusive economic zones to ensuring the safety of sea lanes critical to the nation’s economy. Ranvijay has also been an integral part of international maritime exercises, representing India on the global stage with pride and professionalism.
This storied warship has witnessed the evolving challenges of naval warfare and adapted to meet them with resilience and precision. Its modernization has reinforced its position as a key component of India’s blue water navy, a force capable of projecting power far beyond its shores.
The Human Element: Heart of Ranvijay
At the core of Ranvijay’s enduring legacy lies its crew—a band of dedicated men and women who live by the spirit of “service before self.” Their soul-stirring battle cry, “Vijay Vijay…Ranvijay,” echoes through the corridors of this indomitable warship, inspiring camaraderie and an unyielding commitment to the nation.
These naval professionals, bound by duty and discipline, ensure that Ranvijay remains combat-ready at all times. From mastering its advanced weaponry to enduring the challenges of life at sea, the crew epitomizes the valor and sacrifice that define India’s armed forces.
A Legacy to Celebrate
As INS Ranvijay celebrates its 37th anniversary today, it stands tall as a testament to India’s naval prowess and its unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime sovereignty. It is a day to honor not just the steel and technology that make up this magnificent warship, but also the spirit and dedication of those who have served aboard her.
The legacy of INS Ranvijay is one of resilience, strength, and glory. It serves as a reminder of India’s growing stature as a maritime power and the unshakable resolve of the Indian Navy to defend the nation’s seas.
With its storied past and promising future, INS Ranvijay remains a vital pillar of India’s naval strategy, a beacon of hope and strength for the nation. On this special day, we salute this mighty warship and its crew, past and present, for their unparalleled contribution to the safety and sovereignty of Bharat Mata.
Here’s to many more decades of glory for INS Ranvijay!
Jai Hind.