In a significant development for Indo-Russian defense cooperation, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India and Russia are set to embark on a new era of collaboration across several advanced sectors, including Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Space Exploration, and Counter-Terrorism. This statement came during a recent event where the Defense Minister expressed optimism about leveraging mutual expertise for enhanced strategic outcomes.
The occasion was marked by the launch of the INS Tushil, an upgraded Krivak III class frigate, which exemplifies the deepening ties between the two nations. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi lauded the efforts of all personnel involved in the project, particularly the shipyard workers from both nations, as well as the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). He highlighted their exceptional work, noting the seamless integration of Indian systems with Russian technology, which has significantly contributed to the project’s advancements in quality and capability.
The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Russian Deputy Minister of Defence Alexander Vasilyevich Fomin, the Governor of Kaliningrad, Alexey Sergeyevich Besprozvannykh, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, Admiral Aleksandr Alekseyevich Moiseyev. Additionally, Indian Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, and Commander of the Baltic Fleet, Vice Admiral Vladimir Vorobyov, were present, along with other senior representatives from both Indian and Russian government sectors, navies, and industries.
INS Tushil is noteworthy as the seventh ship in the Project 1135.6 series, following the successful service of three Talwar-class vessels and three Teg-class ships. The contract for this upgraded frigate was signed in October 2016 between Russia’s JSC Rosoboronexport, the Indian Navy, and the government of India. The ship is engineered for blue water operations, capable of engaging in diverse naval warfare scenarios through air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic domains.
Equipped with cutting-edge weaponry, INS Tushil boasts advanced capabilities including BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, vertically-launched Shtil surface-to-air missiles with enhanced ranges, and sophisticated anti-submarine systems. The ship can also embark the improved Kamov 28 and Kamov 31 helicopters, which serve as substantial force multipliers.
In terms of performance, INS Tushil is powered by a state-of-the-art gas turbine propulsion system that enables her to achieve speeds exceeding 30 knots. The high level of automation and stealth features built into the frigate further bolster its combat effectiveness and survivability on the battlefield.
The vessel’s keel was laid on July 12, 2013, and it was launched in October 2021. After comprehensive sea trials, including Factory trials, State Committee Trials, and Delivery Acceptance Trials, INS Tushil successfully completed its rigorous testing and is expected to arrive in India in a near combat-ready state by the end of this month. Commanded by Captain Peter Varghese, a specialist in gunnery and missile operations, the frigate signifies a substantial upgrade in India’s maritime capabilities and reinforces the strategic defense collaboration with Russia.
