Indian Navy Commissions Stealth Frigate INS Tamal in Russia
The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Tamal, its newest stealth frigate, at a ceremony in Kaliningrad, Russia. This is the last warship to be built for India by a foreign source, marking a significant milestone in the country's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiative. The Tushil-class frigate, weighing 3,900 tonnes, is equipped with advanced weaponry, including BrahMos supersonic missiles. Two similar frigates are now being constructed in India at Goa Shipyard Limited with Russian technological assistance.
Unpacked:
INS Tamal was built in Russia as part of earlier defense procurement agreements before India's push for indigenous warship construction. This project predates the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, which now emphasizes domestic warship production with foreign technological collaboration.
INS Tamal is equipped with stealth design, BrahMos supersonic missiles, advanced electro-optical/infrared systems, heavyweight torpedoes, network-centric warfare capabilities, and an electronic warfare suite. Its sensors and weapons enable effective operations in anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, making it a versatile combatant.
INS Tamal marks the end of India acquiring major warships from abroad, reflecting a shift toward indigenous production. It features increased Indian-made systems (over 33), including BrahMos missiles, and sets the stage for future frigates to be built domestically using Russian technology, boosting self-reliance.
INS Tamal will join the Western Naval Command, enhancing India's maritime strike power, deterrence, and rapid response capacity in the Indian Ocean Region. Its advanced weaponry and endurance enable it to perform long-range patrols, convoy escort, and multi-domain combat missions.