Navy set to commission stealth frigate ‘Tamal’ in Russia on July 1

The Indian Navy is set to commission its latest stealth multi-role frigate, INS Tamal, on July 1 at Kaliningrad, Russia. The commissioning ceremony will be presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, Commander of the Western Naval Command

‘Tamal’ is the eighth in the series of Krivak-class frigates inducted from Russia over the past two decades and is the second ship of the Tushil Class, which are upgraded versions of the Talwar and Teg classes, each comprising three ships.

As part of the broader contract for the Tushil class, India is also constructing two similar frigates, known as the Triput class, at Goa Shipyard Limited, with technology transfer and design assistance from Russia. By the conclusion of this series, the Indian Navy will operate 10 ships with similar capabilities and commonality in equipment, weaponry, and sensor fit across four different classes.

The Tamal's construction was closely overseen by an Indian team of specialists from the Warship Overseeing Team stationed at Kaliningrad, under the aegis of the Embassy of India, Moscow. At the Naval Headquarters, the project was steered by the Directorate of Ship Production under the Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition.

The ship features 26 per cent indigenous components, including the BrahMos long-range cruise missile, capable of targeting both sea and land. The Navy has stated that the ship's combat capability is enhanced by a range of Network Centric Warfare capabilities and an advanced Electronic Warfare suite. The Tamal boasts a high tonnage-to-firepower ratio, extended endurance, and a top speed exceeding 30 knots.

The crew, comprising over 250 personnel, has undergone rigorous training both ashore and afloat in the challenging winter conditions of St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad.