INS Tamal Commissioning Marks Strategic Naval Shift

India ends foreign warship era

INS Tamal Commissioning Marks Strategic Naval Shift: On July 1, 2025, the Indian Navy will commission INS Tamal, a sleek multi-role stealth frigate, at Kaliningrad, Russia. But more than just a military addition, this event signals a historic milestone—it is the last foreign-built warship India will induct. After this, the navy turns a new page, fully embracing self-reliant naval production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

A modern warship with strategic might

INS Tamal belongs to the Krivak (Tushil) class, a class known for its balanced firepower and agility. Measuring 125 meters in length and displacing 3,900 tons, the ship combines stealth design with heavy weaponry. Its most formidable asset is the BrahMos long-range cruise missile, a hallmark of India’s strategic deterrence.

With over 250 personnel onboard, the ship has cleared all sea trials, including a tough 3-month stretch under diverse sea conditions. Its stealth technology ensures low radar visibility, enhancing survivability in modern naval warfare.

A shift toward indigenous power

INS Tamal will be the final foreign-built ship in the Indian Navy, as the government pivots entirely to indigenous defence production. At the time of commissioning, Tamal will carry 26% indigenous components, which have now increased to 33 Indian-made systems—a small but significant jump toward full localisation.

India is already building two sister ships under the Triput class at Goa Shipyard Ltd, using technology support from Russia. This marks a practical implementation of technology transfer, aligning with the long-term vision of Make in India for the defence sector.

Strategic importance in India’s naval structure

Once in service, INS Tamal will join the Western Fleet, known as the Sword Arm of the Indian Navy. It will operate under the Western Naval Command, India’s primary force in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean region. This adds weight to India’s maritime preparedness amid growing regional challenges.

Training for Tamal’s crew took place in St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad, where sailors underwent rigorous sessions in harsh Russian winter conditions—a testament to their readiness and versatility.

Legacy of Krivak class and India-Russia defence ties

India has long depended on the Krivak-class frigates, with eight such ships already in service since the early 2000s. The commissioning of Tamal wraps up a two-decade-long partnership that has significantly shaped India’s maritime capabilities. It also reflects India-Russia defence cooperation, which now evolves into collaborative production rather than pure imports.

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