Source: The Hindu

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Context:

• After a series of delays, two stealth frigates under construction in Russia for the Indian Navy are set to be delivered in September.
• These are modified Krivak III-class frigates which are also the main basis of the Russian Admiral Grigorovich-class frigate.
• India has six Talwar class frigates in service.

Details:

About INS Tushil and INS Tamal

INS Tushil and INS Tamal are two stealth frigates being built for the Indian Navy in Russia. They are part of the Tushil class, which is a follow-on to the Talwar class and its subsequent frigates. These frigates are being built under Project 1135.6, which is a follow-on to the successful Talwar-class frigates. The ships are being constructed at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia.

Key Features:

• Stealth Technology: These frigates are designed with stealth features to reduce their radar, sound, and infrared signatures, making them difficult to detect.
• Advanced Weaponry: They are expected to be equipped with a mix of surface-to-surface, surface-to-air, and anti-submarine missiles, along with advanced sensors and electronic warfare
• Enhanced Capabilities: The Tushil class frigates are expected to incorporate advanced weaponry, sensors, and stealth features compared to their predecessors.
• Indigenization Efforts: While built in Russia, the Indian Navy will be expected to integrate indigenous systems and weapons to enhance self-reliance.

Strategic Implications:

• Enhanced Maritime Security: The induction of Tushil and Tamal will enhance India’s maritime security.
  • With these advanced warships, the Indian Navy can undertake a variety of missions, including anti-piracy operations, maritime surveillance, and humanitarian assistance.
• Power Projection in Indo-Pacific: The Indo-Pacific region has seen increasing naval activities, and the addition of Tushil and Tamal will strengthen India’s power projection capabilities in these waters.
  • This aligns with India’s strategic vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
• Technological Advancements: These warships represent a technological leap for the Indian Navy, incorporating the latest advancements in naval engineering and combat systems.
  • This positions India as a key player in maritime technology and innovation.
• Strengthening Defense Ties with Russia: The construction and delivery of Tushil and Tamal underscore the strong defense cooperation between India and Russia.
  • This partnership has been essential in India’s defense procurement strategy, providing access to advanced military technology.

Conclusion:

• The induction of Tushil and Tamal marks a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s modernization These warships will enhance India’s maritime security, support power projection in the Indo Pacific, and reinforce strategic defense ties with Russia.
• As India navigates the complex maritime landscape of the 21st century, Tushil and Tamal will play a crucial role in safeguarding national interests and promoting regional stability.

REAL ABOUT- INS TUSHIL- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/ins-tushil

ALSO VISIT- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/defence-production-in-india

Know more about Frigates: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/frigate-vindhyagiri

https://www.iasgyan.in/blogs/submarines-of-indian-navy

Source:

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PRACTICE QUESTION Critically analyze the strategic significance of the INS Tushil and INS Tamal for the Indian Navy. Discuss how these frigates contribute to India's maritime security objectives, considering factors such as their technological advancements, operational capabilities, and geopolitical context.