New Delhi: The Indian Navy is on the brink of a significant enhancement in its maritime capabilities with the imminent delivery of two advanced stealth frigates from Russia. The first, INS Tushil, is set to be commissioned on December 9, 2024, marking a pivotal moment in Indo-Russian naval collaboration. Following closely behind, the second frigate, INS Tamal, is expected to join the fleet by spring 2025.INS Tushil: A New Era for the Indian NavyINS Tushil, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, will be officially commissioned at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad. This event will be attended by Indias Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, symbolizing a robust commitment to strengthening defence ties between India and Russia. The commissioning of INS Tushil not only bolsters Indias naval power but also underscores the strategic partnership that has evolved over decades between the two nations.The frigate is part of an upgraded Krivak III-class series and represents a significant leap in technology and operational capability. With advanced systems including BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and sophisticated radar technologies, INS Tushil is poised to enhance Indias maritime security framework.The Journey of INS TamalFollowing INS Tushil, the second frigate, INS Tamal, is scheduled for delivery in early 2025. This vessel will further augment the Indian Navys operational readiness and strategic reach in the Indian Ocean region. Both frigates are products of a broader agreement established in 2016 between India and Russia for four stealth frigates, with two being built in Russia and two under construction at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) in India.Strengthening Defence TiesThe delivery of these frigates comes after delays attributed to various geopolitical factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict. Despite these challenges, the successful completion of INS Tushil and the upcoming delivery of INS Tamal highlight the resilience and depth of Indo-Russian defence cooperation.As noted by defence officials, The first ship, Tushil, is ready for acceptance by the Indian Navy... The second ship, Tamal, is expected to be delivered by February 2025. This statement reflects not only confidence in the capabilities of these vessels but also the commitment to maintaining a strong naval presence. The induction of INS Tushil into service marks a significant milestone for Indias naval capabilities while reinforcing the enduring partnership with Russia. As both nations navigate complex global dynamics, their collaboration in defence continues to evolve, ensuring that India remains well-equipped to address emerging maritime challenges.
