Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) for advancing India's position as a strong naval power during the foundation stone laying of a large cavitation tunnel at NSTL in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

He stated, "Under DRDO, the work done by NSTL is a benchmark in itself. The research being conducted here on torpedo systems, underwater mines, decoys, and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles-all of this is taking India forward in the direction of making it a strong naval power… Your growing capabilities indicate that we are taking the right steps towards future warfare." Singh further emphasised the importance of NSTL's work on Lithium-ion battery technology: "Earlier, we used to depend on others for these things. Today, we are designing ourselves, developing ourselves, and working with small and large industries to advance it."

On the same day, Rajnath Singh commissioned the indigenous nuclear-powered submarine INS Aridaman into the Indian Navy, marking a significant enhancement of India's strategic maritime capabilities. INS Aridaman is the third vessel of the Arihant class nuclear submarines constructed under Project ATV at Visakhapatnam, strengthening naval operational capacity.

The defence minister also inducted the frigate INS Taragiri, reflecting the Navy's focus on expanding combat readiness amid growing strategic importance of India's eastern seaboard. As the fourth platform in the Project 17A class, Taragiri is a 6,670-tonne vessel built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai, incorporating over 75% indigenous content.