Indian Navy Enhances Fleet with INS Tamal Commissioning

New Delhi, Jul 1 (PTI): The Indian Navy has strengthened its maritime capabilities with the commissioning of the Russian-manufactured guided missile frigate, INS Tamal. This significant event took place in Russia's coastal city of Kaliningrad, marking a new chapter in Indo-Russian naval collaboration.

The INS Tamal, a 125-meter-long and 3900-tonne warship, is a formidable addition to the navy's fleet, boasting a potent blend of advanced Indian and Russian technologies. With an impressive array of weapons, surveillance systems, and the BrahMos supersonic missile, INS Tamal stands as a testament to cutting-edge warship construction.

This commissioning marks the induction of the eighth Krivak class frigate from Russia into the Indian Navy over the past two decades. Built at the renowned Yantar shipyard, INS Tamal is the last foreign-sourced platform of its kind, according to official statements.

INS Tamal is the second ship of the upgraded Tushil Class, which follows the Talwar and Teg classes. Enhanced combat capabilities define this class, featuring network-centric warfare capabilities and an advanced electronic warfare suite.

In line with a broader contract for the Tushil class, India is constructing two similar frigates known as the INS Triput class at Goa Shipyard Ltd. This endeavor benefits from technology transfer and design support from Russia.

The construction of INS Tamal was meticulously overseen by a dedicated Indian team of specialists stationed in Kaliningrad. The project, managed by the Directorate of Ship Production under the Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition, adheres to high standards and rigorous oversight.

Significant upgrades characterize the warship's arsenal, including vertical-launched surface-to-air missiles, an improved 100 mm gun, heavyweight torpedoes, urgent-attack anti-submarine rockets, and an array of advanced surveillance and fire control systems.

A crew of over 250 personnel underwent rigorous training in the challenging winter conditions of St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad, ensuring readiness for operational duties. INS Tamal successfully completed extensive sea trials conducted over three months, showcasing its operational capabilities.

Symbolizing the mythical sword used by Indra, the King of the Gods, INS Tamal carries a name of great significance. The ship's mascot is a blend of the Indian mythological figure 'Jambavant' — the immortal bear king — and the Russian national animal, the Eurasian brown bear.

With enhanced stealth and stability features, INS Tamal is poised for significant contributions in safeguarding maritime interests.

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