In a significant move to enhance its maritime capabilities amid rising tensions with Pakistan, the Indian Navy is preparing to induct its second advanced warship, INS Tamal. The 3,900-tonne frigate, constructed at Russia's Yantar Shipyard, is expected to be officially handed over to India in Kaliningrad within a month, as reported on May 6, 2025.
This delivery comes nearly six months after the commissioning of the first ship in the series, INS Tushil, which was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during his visit to Russia on December 9, 2024. The acquisition of these frigates is part of a broader Indo-Russian defence agreement signed in October 2016, under which India committed to procuring four enhanced Krivak-III class frigates.
The first two frigates, including INS Tamal, are being purchased from Russia for approximately Rs 8,000 crore. The remaining two, named Triput and Tavasya, are currently under construction at Goa Shipyard Limited through a technology transfer deal, estimated to cost around Rs 13,000 crore. These cutting-edge frigates are designed for comprehensive blue-water operations, armed with a modern suite of weapon systems.
INS Tamal is capable of cruising at speeds of up to 30 knots (approximately 55 km/h) and can operate over a range of 3,000 kilometres per deployment. The name Tamal, meaning sword, reflects the ship's offensive and strategic edge. Currently, the frigate has completed its manufacturer trials and is undergoing rigorous State Committee Trials in Russia. Following this phase, it will move into delivery acceptance trials, which include both harbour and sea-based testing. These evaluations are expected to continue over the next 45 to 50 days.
Heavily armed and technologically advanced, INS Tamal boasts a formidable weapons suite. This includes BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Shtil surface-to-air missile systems, providing both offensive and defensive firepower. For undersea warfare, it is equipped with anti-submarine torpedoes and rocket launchers. The vessel can also support the operation of a multi-role helicopter, enhancing its reach and versatility during missions.
With stealth features designed to minimize radar visibility, INS Tamal is tailored for survival and effectiveness in modern maritime conflict scenarios. It is a key component of the 2016 Indo-Russian defence pact, under which four Talwar-class stealth frigates were to be constructed—two in Russia and two in India.
The commissioning of INS Tamal will further bolster the Indian Navy's capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region, especially in light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 tourists dead. This incident has heightened security concerns and underscores the need for a robust naval presence.
According to reports, Indian Navy officials are currently in Russia to oversee the crucial trials, including weapons firing, before the frigate is handed over. An official stated, "The frigate will then be commissioned and set sail for India." Upon its commissioning, INS Tamal will enhance the Navy's multi-domain combat readiness, enabling it to conduct operations across all four domains of naval warfare: air, surface, subsurface, and electronic warfare.
INS Tushil, the first upgraded Krivak III class frigate of Project 1135.6, is also equipped with advanced weaponry, including BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and vertically-launched Shtil surface-to-air missiles with enhanced ranges. It features an upgraded medium-range anti-air and surface gun, an optically-controlled close-range rapid-fire gun system, and advanced electronic warfare and communication suites. INS Tushil reached the Karwar Naval Base in February 2025, marking a significant step in India's naval modernization efforts.
The ongoing collaboration with Russia not only strengthens India's maritime capabilities but also reflects a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing regional security. As tensions continue to rise, the Indian Navy's modernization efforts, highlighted by the induction of INS Tamal, are crucial in maintaining a formidable presence in the Indian Ocean.
In conclusion, the arrival of INS Tamal represents a significant advancement in India's naval capabilities, providing the Indian Navy with enhanced operational readiness and a modern fleet to address emerging security challenges in the region.
