Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently commissioned the INS Tushil, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. This ceremonial event took place during Singh’s three-day official visit to Moscow, marking a significant milestone in India-Russia relations and showcasing India’s growing maritime capabilities. Singh described the INS Tushil as a “proud testament” to India’s increasing naval power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
During his address, the Defence Minister emphasized the Indian Navy’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the IOR, highlighting its essential role in combating piracy, arms trafficking, and other non-state actors. He reaffirmed India’s pledge, along with other friendly nations, to ensure the safety and security of maritime trade, which is crucial for unhindered trade across seas from the Gulf of Oman to Malacca, and beyond.
What sets the INS Tushil apart is not only its advanced capabilities but also the rich collaboration involved in its construction, particularly the Ukrainian-made engine, produced by Zorya Mashproekt, a recognized leader in marine gas turbine technology. As the seventh installment of the Krivak III-class frigate, the INS Tushil is built on the advancements seen in previous vessels such as the Talwar and Teg class ships, with plans for two more to follow.
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The INS Tushil is equipped with a potent arsenal designed to enhance India’s defensive and offensive capabilities. It measures 125 meters in length and has a displacement of 3,900 tonnes. It carries eight BrahMos missiles, medium- and short-range surface-to-air missiles, a 100 mm gun, and systems for anti-submarine warfare. The ship is also designed for high mobility, capable of exceeding speeds of 30 knots, driven by a modern gas turbine propulsion plant.
The commissioning of INS Tushil comes amid growing concerns regarding China’s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean. Experts have noted that the Chinese navy is rapidly modernizing and may soon outpace Western navies in certain aspects of naval strength. Observers believe that the INS Tushil, with its advanced anti-air and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, will not only bolster India’s defensive posture but also play a strategic role in maintaining a balance of power in the region.
Moreover, this new addition is anticipated to enhance India’s operational effectiveness at sea, allowing it to conduct multiple missions and further secure its geopolitical interests. The ship’s capacity to integrate advanced radars, sonar systems, and electronic warfare capabilities ensures that it remains prominently equipped to address modern naval challenges. As INS Tushil prepares to join the Indian Navy, it symbolizes the substantial military cooperation between India and Russia and represents a significant step towards fortifying India’s maritime security strategy.
