INS Tamal: India's Advanced Stealth Frigate

Why in news?

Indian Navy Prepares for INS Tamal’s Commissioning: The Indian Navy crew set to operate INS Tamal, a cutting-edge stealth frigate, has arrived in St. Petersburg, Russia, ahead of its commissioning in June 2025.

About INS Tamal

• Class & Purpose: An upgraded Krivak-III class (Project 1135.6) frigate, enhancing India’s maritime defense.
• Construction: Built at Russia’s Yantar Shipyard, it is one of two frigates built in Russia, while two others are under construction in India.
• Delivery: Expected to join the Indian Navy by early 2025.
• Strategic Role: Strengthens India’s naval fleet, bolstering maritime security and regional power projection in the Indian Ocean Region.

Key Specifications

• Dimensions: Length 124.8m, Beam 15.2m, Draught 4.2m.
• Displacement: 3,350 tonnes (standard), 3,850 tonnes (full load).
• Propulsion: Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) system:
  • Two DS-71 cruise gas turbines (8,450 shp each).
  • Two DT-59 boost gas turbines (22,000 shp each).
  • Total Power Output: 60,900 shp.
• Speed & Range:
  • Maximum 30 knots.
  • 4,830 nautical miles at 14 knots.

Advanced Armament & Aviation Capabilities

• Primary Weaponry:
  • 100mm A-190E naval gun.
  • Two 32-cell vertical launch systems for 9M317 (SA-N-12) surface-to-air missiles.
  • Two quadruple launchers for Kh-35E (SS-N-25) anti-ship missiles.
• Anti-Submarine Warfare:
  • One AK-630 close-in weapon system.
  • Two RBU-6000 12-barrel anti-submarine rocket launchers.
  • Two 533mm torpedo tubes.
• Aviation Facilities: Supports one Ka-28 or Ka-31 helicopter.

Conclusion

• INS Tamal is India’s last imported warship, marking a milestone in Indo-Russian naval cooperation. Its induction will significantly boost India’s blue-water capabilities, ensuring superior maritime defense and strategic dominance.