The Indian Navy has initiated the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) process for its Next Generation Destroyers (P-18 class), aiming to enhance its maritime capabilities by the 2040s. These 11,000-tonne vessels will feature advanced technologies, including high-energy Directed Energy Weapons, a sophisticated integrated stealth design, and a significant reduction in crew size. Constructed under the Strategic Partnership model, with a focus on 70-75% indigenous content, the P-18 destroyers are poised to be the largest combatants in the Indian fleet, reinforcing India’s strategic objective to maintain naval dominance in the Indian Ocean region amidst growing regional naval threats. The project underscores India’s commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities and enhancing operational efficiency.