Rajput-Class Destroyer of the Indian Navy at Exercise Malabar 2012 [Wallpaper]

Rajput-class Destroyer of the Indian Navy are a modified version of the Russian Kashin II-class destroyers. It currently operates five such Destroyers

• INS Rajput [D51]
• INS Rana [D52]
• INS Ranjit [D53]
• INS Ranvir [D54]
• INS Ranvijay [D55]

Among the complement of on-board weapon systems, some/all of these warship have been retro-fitted to be able to launch a Naval-version of India's indigenously developed nuclear-capable Prithvi Ballistic Missile, the Dhanush. The missile presently forms India's interim sea-based second-strike Nuclear launch capability as part of India's Nuclear triad, till the time submarine-launched K-series of Missiles are ready for induction and the required platform is in operation.

In addition, these warships are also capable of launching the supersonic BrahMos Cruise missile developed in collaboration between India & Russia. While initially mounted in inclined launcher tubes fitted on the port & starboard sides of the ship, the missile has also been successfully test-fired from Vertical Launch Silos, recessed in the warship's deck. Vertical launch of the missile significantly increases manoeuvrability & directionality of the missile without burning substantial fuel in re-directing the missile, as is the case with inclined launchers.

During the recently held Exercise Malabar 2012, INS Ranvijay & INS Ranvir were involved in the Naval exercises with their U.S counterparts. During the course of this exercise, a host of awesome photographs of the two Rajput-class Destroyers were shot. Makes for brilliants wallpapers for the home screen.

Click on the images to view larger-sized version

• INS Ranvir [D54]

• INS Ranvijay [D55]

source: www.navy.mil

The photographs, below, shows a Rajput-class leading a flotilla of Kora-class Corvettes of the Indian Navy. Visual beauty.

source: www.nausena-bharti.nic.in

Godspeed