They are the first warships designed with low observability features built in India.

Shivalik is the first Indian naval vessel to use a combined diesel or gas (CODOG) propulsion system.

[19] There has also been an increased emphasis on crew comfort in this class of ships with more spacious accommodation being provided.

[20] On 11 January 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for procurement of BrahMos launchers and fire control systems for Shivalik-class frigates and Next Generation Missile Vessels.

[3] They use two Pielstick 16 PA6 STC Diesel engines and two GE LM2500+ boost turbines in CODOG configuration providing a total of 47,370 shp (35,320 kW) of power.

These include: In addition, the ships use HUMSA-NG (hull-mounted sonar array) and the BEL Ellora Electronic Warfare suite.

[8] The Shivalik-class frigates are equipped with a mix of Russian, Indian and Israeli weapon systems.

Two 8-cell VLS Barak SAM paired with two AK-630 act as close-in weapon systems (CIWS).

[27][28] As part of India's Look East policy, the ships visited the Shanghai port on 13 June 2012, for a five-day goodwill tour.

[31] Before leaving the port, the ships conducted a routine passage exercise with the People's Liberation Army Navy.