The Indian Navy is poised to add a significant asset to its fleet with the commissioning of its latest guided-missile stealth frigate, INS Tamal, on July 1 in Kaliningrad, Russia. This ceremony coincides with the induction of the eighth and final Krivak-class frigate acquired from Russia, marking a pivotal shift as India progresses towards complete self-reliance in warship production.
Constructed at the Yantar Shipyard, INS Tamal exemplifies a blend of Russian engineering and Indian technological advancement. Spanning 125 meters and weighing 3,900 tonnes, this warship is equipped with a comprehensive array of weaponry and surveillance systems. Notably, 26 percent of its components are sourced from Indian manufacturers, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, which delivers precision strike capabilities against both terrestrial and maritime targets.
Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, is set to preside over the commissioning ceremony, which is expected to attract senior officials from both Indian and Russian defense sectors. This underscores the robust strategic partnership that exists between the two nations.
As the second vessel of the Tushil-class frigates, INS Tamal serves as an upgraded iteration of the previous Talwar and Teg classes. It joins the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, often referred to as the ‘Sword Arm’, enhancing India’s maritime combat capabilities considerably. The ship is outfitted with advanced systems, including vertical-launched surface-to-air missiles, an upgraded 100mm naval gun, heavyweight torpedoes, and a suite dedicated to electronic warfare.
According to Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal, “Tamal punches well above its weight with a high tonnage-to-firepower ratio, extended endurance, and a top speed exceeding 30 knots.” The warship also integrates Indian-origin technologies such as the HUMSA NG Mk II sonar, a cutting-edge anti-submarine warfare complex, and state-of-the-art surface surveillance radar.
The frigate is manned by a crew of over 250 sailors who have undergone rigorous training in the extreme winter conditions of St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad. They completed extensive sea trials in recent months, certifying the vessel’s operational readiness. The design emphasizes enhanced stealth capabilities and superior sea-keeping abilities, making it versatile for both combat and peacetime missions.
INS Tamal’s name is inspired by the mythical sword of Indra, the king of gods in Indian mythology, and reflects a melding of Indian and Russian cultural elements. Its mascot draws inspiration from ‘Jambavant’, the legendary bear king, and the Eurasian brown bear, which is Russia’s national animal.
In a parallel effort, India is developing two additional Tushil-class frigates at Goa Shipyard Ltd, supported by Russian design expertise. By the conclusion of this series, the Indian Navy will operate a total of 10 warships across four different classes, facilitating enhanced interoperability and logistical efficiency.
Overall, INS Tamal not only bolsters the capabilities of the Indian Navy but also stands as a demonstration of the fruitful collaboration between Indian and Russian naval industries.
