Navy to Commission Advanced Stealth Frigate INS Tushil in Russia

1. In December 2024, The Indian Navy is set to commission its latest multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, INS Tushil, in Kaliningrad, Russia next week.
2. The ceremony will be attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other senior officials from both Russia and India.
3. This marks a significant milestone in the India-Russia defense collaboration and the modernization of the Indian Navy.

About INS Tushil:

1. Class: INS Tushil is an upgraded Krivak III-class frigate under Project 1135.6.
2. Construction: Built at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia, it is the first of two upgraded follow-on ships contracted in October 2016 between JSC Rosoboronexport, the Indian Navy, and the Government of India.
3. Specifications:
   1. Length: 125 meters
   2. Displacement: 3,900 tons
   3. Speed: Over 30 knots, based on successful sea trials
4. Indigenous Content: The frigate integrates 26% Indian content, with 33% of Indian-made systems, which is a significant increase compared to previous ships in the class.
5. Technological Features: Enhanced stealth features and improved stability are key upgrades, with cutting-edge technologies from both India and Russia.

Key Features and Contributions:

1. The Indian Warship Overseeing Team in Kaliningrad supervised the construction of INS Tushil, in collaboration with the Embassy of India in Moscow.
2. Major Indian suppliers include BrahMos Aerospace, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Keltron, Nova Integrated Systems (Tata Group), and Elcome Marine. These companies contributed to various onboard systems, such as missile systems, electronics, and communication equipment.
3. Starting January 2024, INS Tushil underwent extensive trials, including Factory Sea Trials, State Committee Trials, and Delivery Acceptance Trials, which tested the ship's operational readiness.
4. These trials included weapon firings and confirmed its speed and capabilities.

Motto and Symbolism:

1. Name: The ship is named Tushil, meaning "the protector shield," reflecting its primary function as a defensive force in India's naval fleet.
2. Crest: The frigate’s crest features the symbol of an Abhedya Kavacham (impenetrable shield), representing its protective role.
3. Motto: The ship's motto, "Nirbhay, Abhedya aur Balsheel" (Fearless, Indomitable, Resolute), reflects the Indian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime borders.

Role in Indian Navy:

1. Upon commissioning, INS Tushil will be assigned to the Western Fleet, which is also referred to as the "Sword Arm" of the Indian Navy.
2. It will serve under the Western Naval Command, adding significant strength to India’s maritime defense capabilities.
3. Strategic Importance: INS Tushil will join one of the most advanced fleets globally, bolstering India’s naval power and reflecting the country’s growing prowess on the world stage.

India-Russia Defense Partnership:

1. Collaborative Project: The construction and commissioning of INS Tushil is a testament to the strong defense ties between India and Russia.
2. The project involved deep cooperation between Indian and Russian defense industries, with major technological inputs and military support coming from both nations.
3. Symbol of Strategic Partnership: INS Tushil serves as a symbol of the enduring India-Russia defense relationship, which continues to play a vital role in India’s national security strategy.

What is the Krivak III-class frigate?

1. The Krivak III-class is a series of multi-role stealth guided missile frigates designed and built by Russia.
2. These warships are known for their advanced radar and stealth features, enhanced firepower, and versatility in handling various military tasks such as anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and surface warfare.

Conclusion:

The commissioning of INS Tushil represents a significant milestone for both the Indian Navy and the India-Russia defense relationship. With its advanced capabilities, the frigate is poised to enhance India’s naval power, ensuring greater maritime security for the nation. The growing cooperation between Indian and Russian defense industries further strengthens India’s defense capabilities and highlights its global strategic position.