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India and Russia Strengthen Defense Ties with Launch of INS Tushil, an Advanced Frigate

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India and Russia Strengthen Defense Ties with Launch of INS Tushil, an Advanced Frigate

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.

Denmark Receives Four More F-35 Jets, Expanding Fighter Fleet and Defense Capabilities

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Denmark Receives Four More F-35 Jets, Expanding Fighter Fleet and Defense Capabilities

Four advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter jets have successfully arrived at the Fighter Wing Skrydstrup facility in Denmark, marking a significant milestone in the country’s military modernization efforts. This latest delivery brings Denmark’s total F-35 count to eight, with an additional three jets expected to join the fleet in the coming months.

Colonel Kim Jensen, the commander at Skrydstrup, spoke about the implications of the new aircraft, stating that their arrival allows the facility to transition from basic training to more advanced operational exercises. “The arrival of more aircraft at Skrydstrup means that we can go from flying basic training to maintain the level we have learned in the US to now actually starting to train more people,” Jensen explained. He highlighted the importance of the training, saying, “At the same time, we can start training in larger scenarios, and we can start training more specifically in relation to what we will actually need the F-35 for in the future.”

The acquisition of these advanced fighter jets is part of Denmark’s broader efforts to enhance its defense capabilities. The nation has been gradually expanding its fighter jet fleet and significantly increasing military spending in recent years. Notably, in September 2023, Denmark took a crucial step by receiving its first four Lockheed Martin-made F-35s, intended to replace the aging fleet of F-16 fighters that have been in service since the 1980s. These older jets are set to be retired by 2027.

Earlier in the year, Denmark unveiled plans to boost its defense budget by 143 billion kroner, equivalent to approximately $20.5 billion, over the next decade. This substantial increase aims to modernize the military and enhance Denmark’s readiness in a rapidly changing security landscape. The delivery of the F-35s represents a significant advancement in the capabilities of the Royal Danish Air Force, aligning with the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong and capable defense force.

INS Tushil Commissioned into Indian Navy, Strengthening India-Russia Defence Ties

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INS Tushil Commissioned into Indian Navy, Strengthening India-Russia Defence Ties

During a significant commissioning ceremony in Kaliningrad, Russia, on December 9, 2024, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced a new chapter in India-Russia cooperation, emphasizing the potential collaboration in cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence, cyber security, space exploration, and counter-terrorism. This announcement coincided with the formal induction of INS Tushil, a stealth guided missile frigate, into the Indian Navy.

Singh highlighted Russia’s crucial role in supporting India’s vision for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India), illustrating the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations. He pointed out that the indigenous manufacturing component in vessels like INS Tushil has been steadily rising, signifying a collaborative success between Indian and Russian industries. The Defence Minister characterized this development as a testament to India’s advancement towards technological self-sufficiency achieved through international partnership.

The commissioning ceremony featured a joint Guard of Honour, showcasing the camaraderie between the Indian Navy and Russia’s Baltic Fleet. Captain Peter Varghese, the commanding officer designate of INS Tushil, accepted the ceremonial ship’s baton from his Russian counterpart and formally read the Commissioning Warrant issued by the Chief of Naval Staff. The event culminated with the hoisting of the Indian Naval ensign.

INS Tushil represents an upgraded Krivak III class frigate from Project 1135.6, becoming the seventh vessel in a series that includes several operational ships already constructed, such as the Talwar and Teg class frigates. The ship was part of a bilateral agreement signed in October 2016, which entails the construction of four stealth frigates, two in Russia and two at Goa Shipyard Limited under a technology transfer arrangement. The additional second frigate, Tamal, is anticipated to be delivered in early 2025, despite prior delays caused by the COVID pandemic and geopolitical tensions stemming from the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Addressing the broader maritime strategy, Singh reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to ensuring peace and security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). He noted that the Navy has successfully thwarted threats from piracy and smuggling while playing a crucial role in safeguarding maritime trade routes stretching from the Gulf of Oman to the Malacca Strait. Singh emphasized the Indian Navy’s readiness to respond to humanitarian crises and provide disaster relief in the region.

INS Tushil is designed for comprehensive naval warfare, featuring advanced operational capabilities in air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic domains. The vessel is armed with an array of state-of-the-art weaponry, including the jointly-developed BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, vertically-launched Shtil Surface-to-Air missiles, enhanced anti-air and surface guns, and anti-submarine weaponry, alongside sophisticated electronic warfare systems. It also has the capacity to deploy upgraded anti-submarine helicopters, ensuring versatility in various operational contexts.

The ship’s keel was laid on July 12, 2013, launched in October 2021, and successfully completed extensive trials before its delivery acceptance in late September 2024. According to the Navy, INS Tushil is set to arrive in India fully combat-ready, highlighting a significant milestone in enhancing India’s maritime defense capabilities.

India’s First Nuclear Submarine Base Expected to Be Operational by 2025-2026

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India's First Nuclear Submarine Base Expected to Be Operational by 2025-2026

In a significant development for India’s naval capabilities, Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi has emphasized the crucial role that nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) play in the country’s defense strategy. He noted that these submarines constitute the third key component of India’s nuclear triad, underlining their importance as deterrents against potential adversaries.

Currently, India operates two nuclear submarines—the INS Arihant and the recently commissioned INS Arighat. To bolster its naval strength further, India is developing a strategic naval base focused on nuclear submarines, known as Project INS Varsha. This facility, located near the coastal village of Rambilli in Andhra Pradesh, is projected to become fully operational by 2025-2026.

As regional tensions heighten, particularly with neighboring China—home to the largest navy in the world—India is advancing its nuclear submarine program to enhance its maritime defense capabilities. Admiral Tripathi confirmed that India plans to launch its first indigenous nuclear attack submarine by 2036, with a second expected to follow in two years. The estimated cost of constructing these initial submarines is around Rs 35,000 crore (approximately $4.5 billion).

The anticipated INS Varsha submarine base is expected to play a vital role in supporting both current and future submarines within the Indian Navy. Once operational, it will significantly boost India’s naval tactics and operations, especially within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the contentious South China Sea. The Indian Navy aims to acquire a total of six nuclear attack submarines, with the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approving the construction of the first two indigenous submarines in October 2024.

Describing the strategic initiative as a “game changer,” Admiral Tripathi highlighted that this project would not only elevate the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy but also strengthen the domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem. This aligns with India’s broader ‘Make in India’ initiative aimed at fostering self-reliance in defense production over the next five years.

Reflecting on the country’s growing technological prowess, Admiral Tripathi pointed out India’s capacity to design and manufacture intricate defense structures. The upcoming submarine project is expected to mirror the successful model implemented during the development of India’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.

India’s foray into developing indigenous nuclear-powered submarines started with the commissioning of the INS Arihant in August 2016, followed by the INS Arighat in August 2024. The third submarine, INS Aridhaman, is set to be commissioned by the end of 2025, marking a decisive step in enhancing India’s naval defense strategy and operational readiness.

INS Tushil Commissioned into Indian Navy, Enhances Maritime Strength Amid Rising Chinese Presence

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INS Tushil Commissioned into Indian Navy, Enhances Maritime Strength Amid Rising Chinese Presence

In a significant development for the Indian Navy, the Russian-manufactured guided missile frigate INS Tushil was officially commissioned in a ceremony held in Kaliningrad, Russia. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, along with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and other senior officials from India, attended the event that highlighted the growing military collaboration between India and Russia.

INS Tushil is poised to enhance India’s operational capabilities in the strategically vital Indian Ocean, a region that has seen an increase in activities by China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy in recent years. The commissioning of the ship is viewed as a critical step towards strengthening India’s maritime defense posture.

This warship forms part of a broader agreement worth over USD 2.5 billion, signed by New Delhi with Moscow in 2016, which involves the construction of four stealth frigates tailored for the Indian Navy. Under the terms of the deal, two frigates are being built in Russia, while the remaining two vessels will be manufactured in India.

During the commissioning ceremony, Minister Singh emphasized that this development represents a proud moment for India’s maritime aspirations and a noteworthy milestone in the enduring bilateral relations with Russia. He remarked, “The ship is a big proof of the collaborative prowess of Russian and Indian industries. It exemplifies India’s journey towards technological excellence through jointmanship.” Singh also indicated that India and Russia are set to embark on a “new era” of cooperation, particularly in domains such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, space exploration, and counter-terrorism.

The construction of INS Tushil has been closely overseen by a dedicated team of Indian specialists from the Warship Overseeing Team stationed in Kaliningrad. The ship, weighing 3,900 tonnes and measuring 125 meters in length, embodies a powerful blend of advanced Russian and Indian technologies. Officials have pointed out that the ship is designed with improved stealth features and enhanced stability characteristics.

A notable aspect of INS Tushil is its increased indigenous component, with Indian contributions to its construction reaching an impressive 26 percent, thanks to collaboration between Indian naval specialists and the Severnoye Design Bureau. Major Indian defense companies involved in the project include BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, Keltron, Nova Integrated Systems from Tata, and Elcome Marine, among others.

INS Tushil is classified as an upgraded Krivak III class frigate under Project 1135.6, symbolizing years of hard work and dedication by countless shipyard workers and various Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from both Russia and India. This milestone underscores the deepening defense ties between the two nations and marks a key enhancement in India’s naval capabilities.

ST Engineering Partners with Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering to Develop New Amphibious Armored Vehicle

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ST Engineering Partners with Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering to Develop New Amphibious Armored Vehicle

Singapore-based ST Engineering has officially announced a strategic partnership with Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering (KPE) aimed at establishing a production capability for an innovative 8×8 amphibious multi-purpose armored vehicle in Kazakhstan. The collaboration will facilitate engineering and technical support for the design and production of this advanced military platform, which will leverage the proven technology of ST Engineering’s Terrex Infantry Fighting Vehicle. Production of the new vehicle is slated to commence in 2025.

Lim Kok Ann, President of the Land Systems business at ST Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, describing it as a significant milestone for the company’s Land Systems sector. He noted that this collaboration not only marks the firm’s first substantial international land platform contract in recent years but also signifies their entry into the emerging market of Central Asia.

The partnership is poised to leverage the unique strengths of both companies to deliver a highly capable solution tailored for the Kazakhstan Armed Forces. Aibek Baryssov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of KPE, highlighted the company’s robust production capability, stating that KPE is equipped to manufacture up to 500 units of various armored vehicle types annually per shift. He emphasized that the combined expertise in deep localization, scientific research, and familiarity with the operational requirements of armored vehicles in Kazakhstan’s distinct geographic conditions will enable them to effectively fulfill the demands of the Armed Forces for these amphibious 8×8 vehicles.

The Terrex Infantry Fighting Vehicle serves as the foundational platform for this new armored vehicle. Known for its network-centric architecture, the Terrex is designed to offer a high level of protection and versatile weapon configurations. The new vehicle can be equipped with various armaments, including a remote-controlled weapons system fitted with a 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) heavy machine gun, a coaxial 40mm/7.62 machine gun, or a 30mm cannon.

Additionally, the integrated all-round camera system enhances situational awareness, allowing crews to conduct operations from a closed hatch during both day and night scenarios. This closed hatch capability ensures that crews can detect, identify, track, and engage targets without exposing themselves, significantly improving operational safety and efficiency.

Furthermore, the digital architecture of the Terrex platform allows for the incorporation of advanced technological features, such as sophisticated vehicle navigation systems, battle management systems, power management controls, and modern data and communication systems, making it a state-of-the-art choice for modern military applications.

With this collaboration, ST Engineering and KPE are not only poised to enhance the defense capabilities of Kazakhstan but also to strengthen their foothold in the Central Asian defense market, which is becoming increasingly relevant in the geopolitical landscape.

Embraer Secures $17 Million Contract to Enhance Brazilian Army’s Air Defense with SABER M200 Radar

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Embraer Secures $17 Million Contract to Enhance Brazilian Army's Air Defense with SABER M200 Radar

In a significant move to bolster its air defense capabilities, the Brazilian Army has secured a contract with Embraer for the acquisition of the SABER M200 Vigilante radar system. The deal, which is valued at an estimated 102 million Brazilian real (approximately $17 million), was finalized during the Mostra BID defense and security exhibition held in Brasilia last week.

The contract not only encompasses the provision of the SABER radar but also includes comprehensive technical and maintenance support to ensure the system’s effective operation. However, Embraer has not revealed the specific timeline for the delivery of the radar units.

With this agreement, the Brazilian Army is set to become the first military force to operate the SABER M200 radar, which will significantly enhance its anti-aircraft artillery units. The SABER M200 was unveiled in 2021 and is specifically designed to provide low-altitude surveillance for anti-aircraft operations. Utilizing advanced signal processing technology, the radar system is capable of detecting and tracking aerial targets with impressive accuracy.

The SABER M200 is equipped with two active phased array antennas, allowing for a detection range of up to 200 kilometers (124 miles). This capability will greatly enhance the Brazilian Army’s situational awareness and response to potential aerial threats. Additionally, the radar system features an integrated power generator, facilitating its deployment via the C-390 airlifter, which underscores its versatility and operational readiness.

Notably, the Brazilian Army currently operates a different variant of the SABER radar, known as the M60, which is primarily employed for border surveillance. The introduction of the SABER M200 radar marks a significant advancement in the Army’s air defense strategy, reflecting Brazil’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities in an increasingly complex security landscape.

INS Tushil Commissioned: A Symbol of India-Russia Defense Cooperation

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INS Tushil Commissioned: A Symbol of India-Russia Defense Cooperation

In a significant display of Indo-Russian cooperation, the Indian Navy has officially commissioned the INS Tushil, the seventh frigate of Project 11356, during a ceremony held in Kaliningrad, Russia. The event was graced by high-ranking officials from both nations, including India’s Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh. The name “Tushil,” which translates to “the protector shield,” is complemented by a crest that symbolizes ‘Abhedya Kavacham,’ or the impenetrable shield, reflecting the ship’s purpose and the joint defense commitments between India and Russia.

The INS Tushil is part of a broader program wherein Russia has built several frigates for India, underscoring the enduring defense ties between the two countries. The first trio of vessels—Talwar, Trishul, and Tabar—was completed and handed over in the early 2000s, followed by three additional ships—Teg, Tarkash, and Trikand—delivered between 2012 and 2013. Currently, the Yantar shipyard is engaged in the construction of two modernized frigates recognized as Project 11356M: INS Tushil and Tamala, the latter still in the outfitting stage.

Interestingly, the development of the Tushil and Tamala was initially intended for the Russian Navy. However, sanctions and embargoes on critical components like the gas turbines, primarily due to geopolitical tensions following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, had a significant impact on their production. This interruption led to a reconsideration of their fate, with India stepping in to procure the unfinished units, thus paving the way for enhanced defense collaboration.

Minister Singh highlighted Russia’s significant contributions to India’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India), emphasizing the increasing indigenous content in ships like the INS Tushil. He remarked on the ship as a testament to the collaborative potential of Indian and Russian industries, marking a significant advancement in India’s defense technology capabilities.

The technological journey of the Tushil reflects a blend of Russian hull construction and Ukrainian propulsion systems. The frigates, originally meant for the Russian Black Sea Fleet, faced production setbacks due to the disruption of key supply chains essential for their completion. In a strategic response, India secured an agreement with Ukraine to obtain the necessary turbines, and a contract was established with Russia for licensing the construction of additional Project 11356M frigates at Goa Shipyard Limited.

The propulsion units for the nearly completed frigates were delivered by Zorya-Mashproekt, consisting of advanced gas turbines engineered for high performance. The development of the INS Tushil marks a significant evolution from previous iterations, with an estimated 26% of its systems sourced from Indian manufacturers, a figure that looks to rise significantly as future projects progress.

The roots of the frigate’s design trace back to Cold War-era Soviet ships, demonstrating a legacy that blends both defense history and contemporary needs. With advancements in technology and increased Indian contributions to the frigate’s systems, the INS Tushil not only stands as a formidable naval asset but also as a symbol of strengthened diplomatic and military ties between India and Russia, heralding a new chapter in collaborative defense endeavors.

India Commissions Latest Warship INS Tushil, Strengthening Defence Ties with Russia

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India Commissions Latest Warship INS Tushil, Strengthening Defence Ties with Russia

The Indian Navy has recently welcomed its newest warship, INS Tushil, a multi-role stealth frigate weighing 3,900 tonnes, during a commissioning ceremony held in Kaliningrad. The event was marked by remarks from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who emphasized the significance of this milestone in enhancing bilateral defense relations between India and Russia. Singh highlighted the potential for further collaboration in “new and unexplored areas” including artificial intelligence, cyber-security, space exploration, and counterterrorism.

The minister’s statements underscored a vision of a new era of cooperation, as both nations look to leverage their respective expertise. He pointed out that the ongoing ‘Made in India’ initiative is increasingly reflected in the ships being constructed, including INS Tushil, showcasing the collaborative efforts of Indian and Russian industries.

Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi praised the dedication and skill of the workers at the Yantar shipyard and acknowledged the seamless integration of Indian systems with Russian technology, which has contributed to enhanced capabilities in the frigate’s design and construction.

INS Tushil is an advanced version of the Krivak-III class frigate, designed for operations across the full spectrum of naval warfare, excelling in air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic domains. This 125-metre long vessel is equipped with an array of cutting-edge weaponry, including the jointly-developed BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, vertically-launched Shtil surface-to-air missiles, and upgraded medium-range anti-air guns. Complementing these weapons, the ship also features advanced electronic warfare and communication systems.

The frigate is designed for high performance with the ability to reach speeds in excess of 30 knots and the capacity to deploy advanced airborne platforms such as the Kamov-28 and Kamov-31 helicopters, which are critical for anti-submarine warfare and early-warnings operations.

The acquisition of INS Tushil is part of a larger collaboration outlined in an agreement signed in October 2018, which includes plans for four upgraded Krivak-III class frigates. The first two frigates are being imported from Russia at an estimated cost of around Rs 8,000 crore, while the remaining two, including INS Tushil, are being constructed at Goa Shipyard under a technology transfer agreement, with an overall expenditure projected at around Rs 13,000 crore. The first of these locally constructed vessels was launched as Triput in July this year.

This commissioning not only complements India’s existing fleet—which already includes six Russian frigates (three Talwar-class and three Teg-class) inducted between 2003 and 2004—but also reflects an ongoing commitment to modernizing and strengthening the country’s naval capabilities through international partnerships.

INS Tushil: New Guided Missile Stealth Frigate Commissioned into Indian Navy

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INS Tushil: New Guided Missile Stealth Frigate Commissioned into Indian Navy

With the Tricolour fluttering from its bow, the F-70 INS Tushil has officially joined the Indian Navy as the latest addition. The guided missile stealth frigate was commissioned by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in a ceremonial event held in Kaliningrad, a significant Russian port city on December 9. The ship’s name, Tushil, translates to “the protector shield,” and it carries a crest that symbolizes “Abhedya Kavacham,” or the impenetrable shield, accompanied by the motto “Nirbhay, Abhedya aur Balsheel,” which means fearless, indomitable, resolute.

During the commissioning ceremony, Defence Minister Singh highlighted the importance of the new vessel as a proud testament to India’s expanding maritime capabilities. He was joined by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi and several other dignitaries from both Russia and India. Singh also emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation between India and Russia, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence and counter-terrorism, marking a new era in bilateral relations.

INS Tushil is classified as an upgraded Krivak III class frigate, part of Project 1135.6, which currently includes six other vessels already in service; three of these belong to the Talwar class, constructed at Baltiysky Shipyard in St. Petersburg, while the three Teg class ships were built at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad. As the seventh vessel in this series, INS Tushil is the first of two additional follow-on ships, with its construction overseen by an Indian team of specialists based in Kaliningrad under the auspices of the Indian Embassy in Moscow.

Initially laid down in July 2013 under the name Admiral Butakov, INS Tushil was part of a procurement deal worth Rs 8,000 crore finalized by India’s Ministry of Defence in October 2018, which involved obtaining two Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates from Russia. The second vessel, previously known as Admiral Istomin, has been christened INS Tamala.

The construction of the warship involved collaboration between various Russian and Indian equipment manufacturers, with the indigenous content being augmented to 26 percent and the number of Indian-made systems increasing to 33. Key Indian agencies contributing to the ship’s equipment include BrahMos Aerospace, Bharat Electronics, Keltron, Nova Integrated Systems from Tata, Elcome Marine, and Johnson Controls India.

The post-construction phase included extensive trials starting in January, covering factory sea trials, state committee trials, and delivery acceptance trials conducted by Indian specialists. These assessments tested all Russian equipment on board, including various weapon systems, with the ship achieving an impressive speed of over 30 knots, approximately 56 km/h.

Frigates, such as INS Tushil, serve as well-armed warships specializing in anti-submarine and anti-air operations, typically providing escort duties to protect naval fleets and critical sea lanes. While they are generally smaller than destroyers, modern frigates possess significant offensive capabilities, often blurring the lines between the two classifications.

Historically, the Indian Navy has employed frigate-like vessels since ancient times, with the Maratha forces utilizing ships such as the Grab and Gallivat to extend their naval power. The modern frigate era in India began in the early 1920s with the British commissioning ships like HMIS Clive and HMIS Lawrence into the Royal Indian Navy. Since then, frigates have remained a vital component of the Indian Navy’s surface combatant fleet, transitioning from primarily Western to Russian designs in the late 20th century, and now integrating increasingly indigenous construction capabilities.

INS Tushil, measuring 125 meters and weighing 3,900 tons, boasts a formidable array of advanced Russian and Indian technologies. This state-of-the-art warship features enhanced stealth and stability, drawing comparisons to the Indian Navy’s largest destroyer, INS Kolkata, which is 163 meters long and displaces 7,500 tons. The new frigate will be manned by a crew of 180, including 18 officers.

Armament on board includes eight BrahMos vertically launched anti-ship cruise missiles, 24 medium-range and eight short-range surface-to-air missiles, a 100 mm gun, and two close-in weapons systems for last-ditch defense against incoming threats. Additionally, it is equipped with double torpedo tubes and a rocket launcher for anti-submarine warfare, along with an array of advanced radars, navigation systems, sonar, electronic warfare equipment, fire control systems, and decoys.

Following the induction of INS Tushil, the Indian Navy continues to operate a total of 12 frigates, including three Shivalik class, six Talwar/Teg class, and three Brahmaputra class vessels, along with 18 submarines, two aircraft carriers, 12 destroyers, and 18 corvettes. More warships are currently on order as part of the Indian Navy’s ongoing modernization and expansion efforts.