INS Tamal, the Indian Navy’s latest multi-role stealth frigate, was officially commissioned on July 1, 2025, at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. The ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, and top Indian and Russian naval officials.
Built under the Indo-Russian Project 1135.6, INS Tamal is the eighth ship in its series and the second of the Tushil-class follow-ons. It joins India’s Western Fleet—often referred to as ‘The Sword Arm’ of the Navy—under the command of Capt. Sridhar Tata, a specialist in gunnery and missile warfare.
The event featured a ceremonial Guard of Honour and a formal handover marked by the lowering of the Russian naval flag and hoisting of the Indian Naval Ensign. INS Tamal’s commissioning is seen as a symbol of the enduring Indo-Russian strategic partnership and technological collaboration, with 51 warships built through this cooperation over the past 65 years.
Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan lauded the joint efforts of Indian and Russian engineers, shipbuilders, and OEMs, highlighting the vessel’s 26% indigenous components, including the BrahMos cruise missile and HUMSA-NG sonar system. These systems showcase India’s strides in self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
INS Tamal is a formidable platform, designed for full-spectrum blue-water operations. Its arsenal includes BrahMos supersonic missiles, Shtil-1 surface-to-air systems, anti-submarine torpedoes, advanced artillery, and integrated electronic warfare capabilities. It can also carry Kamov helicopters for anti-submarine and airborne surveillance missions.
The ship features advanced automation for nuclear, biological, and chemical defense, and integrates a Combat Management System that links all weapons and sensors for optimal tactical response. With a crew of 250 sailors and 26 officers, INS Tamal embodies its motto: Sarvatra Sarvada Vijaya – “Victory Always, Everywhere.”
It will now sail toward its homeport in Karwar, Karnataka, ready to begin operational deployments across the Indian Ocean. With its induction, the Indian Navy further strengthens its maritime dominance, preparedness, and strategic deterrence in the region.
Source: Press Information Bureau
