Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reached Moscow on Sunday night for a key official visit. On Monday, he is set oversee the commissioning of the INS Tushil, an advanced stealth-guided missile frigate, at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia.
INS Tushil is part of the Krival class warships, and its commissioning marks a significant milestone in India’s naval capabilities. Six ships from this class are already in service with the Indian Navy, including three Talwar class ships built at Baltiysky Shipyard in St. Petersburg, and three Teg class ships constructed at Yantar shipyard. India had signed a contract in October 2016 with JSC Rosonboron export to build two warships, with the ship undergoing extensive trials, including sea and delivery acceptance tests, from January 2024.
The 125-meter-long INS Tushil, weighing 3,900 tonnes, blends Russian and Indian technologies to deliver advanced lethality. The ship is a testament to India’s growing maritime strength, featuring 26% indigenous content, which is a significant improvement over previous models. The number of Indian-made systems on the frigate has also doubled to 33, involving collaborations with companies like BrahMos Aerospace, Bharat Electronics, Keltron, and others.
In addition to attending the INS Tushil commissioning, Rajnath Singh will participate in the 21st meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation. He will also pay tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow, honoring the Soviet soldiers who lost their lives in World War II.
During his visit, Rajnath Singh is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks on defense and strategic issues. Singh will also engage with the Indian community in Russia.
INS Tushil’s name, meaning “protector shield,” and its crest symbolize India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime borders. The ship’s motto, "Nirbhay, Abhedya aur Balsheel" (Fearless, Indomitable, Resolute), reflects the Indian Navy’s unwavering determination.
After its commissioning, INS Tushil will join the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet under the Western Naval Command, enhancing the fleet's capabilities as one of the world’s most technologically advanced frigates.
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