NEW DELHI — The Indian Navy will commission its latest stealth multi-role frigate, Tamal, on July 1 at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia, marking a significant milestone in India’s naval modernization efforts and longstanding defense ties with Russia.
Vice Admiral Sanjay J. Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, will preside over the ceremony as the chief guest, alongside senior Indian and Russian defense and government officials.
Tamal is the eighth Krivak-class frigate inducted by India over the past two decades and the second vessel of the upgraded Tushil class. As part of a broader defense agreement, India is also constructing two similar frigates—designated the Triput class—at Goa Shipyard Limited with Russian design and technology support.
Built at the Russian Yantar Shipyard, Tamal is the last major warship to be inducted from a foreign shipyard, in line with India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) and “Make in India” initiatives. The ship includes 26% indigenous components and features significant upgrades over its predecessors, including the BrahMos long-range cruise missile, vertical launch surface-to-air missiles, and advanced electronic warfare systems.
Weighing 3,900 tons and measuring 125 meters in length, Tamal boasts a top speed exceeding 30 knots and is capable of extended missions at sea. The ship can deploy air early warning and multi-role helicopters and features modern surveillance, fire control radars, and anti-submarine warfare systems.
“Tamal is a powerful blend of Indian and Russian technological collaboration,” an Indian Navy spokesperson said. “It embodies the strength of the Indo-Russian partnership and reflects India’s growing defense self-reliance.”
A team of Indian naval specialists stationed in Kaliningrad oversaw the ship’s construction, with coordination from India’s Directorate of Ship Production. The crew of over 250 personnel underwent rigorous training in harsh winter conditions in St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad and completed a three-month series of sea trials.
The ship’s name, Tamal, refers to the mythical sword of Indra, the king of the gods, while the mascot—”The Great Bears”—symbolizes the fusion of the Indian mythological figure Jambavant, and Russia’s national animal, the Eurasian brown bear. Its motto, “Sarvada Sarvatra Vijaya” (“Victorious Always Every Time”), underscores the Navy’s commitment to operational excellence.
Upon commissioning, Tamal will join the Western Fleet, known as the “Sword Arm” of the Indian Navy, under the Western Naval Command.
