Why in News?

• The first destroyer of the Indian Navy, INS Rajput is set to be decommissioned.

About INS Rajput

• INS Rajput, the lead ship of the Kashin-class destroyers built by the erstwhile USSR, was commissioned in 1980.
• The ship has participated in several operations, as part of national security. Some of these include Operation Aman off Sri Lanka to assist ndian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF), Operation Pawan for patrolling duties off the coast of Sri Lanka, Operation Cactus to resolve hostage situation off the Maldives, and Operation Crowsnest off Lakshadweep.
• In addition, the ship participated in numerous bilateral and multinational exercises. The ship was also the first Indian Naval Ship to be affiliated with an Indian Army regiment, the Rajput Regiment.
• INS Rajput was also the first ship in the Navy to get the first version of the BrahMos anti-ship supersonic cruise missile in 2005.

What is a destroyer?

• In naval terminology, a destroyer is a fast, maneuverable, long-endurance warship intended to escort larger vessels in a fleet, convoy or battle group and defend them against powerful short range attackers.

 Reference:

1. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-rajput-to-be-decommissioned-on-friday-after-41-years-of-service/article34605714.ece