INS Tushil (F 70), the latest multi-role stealth-guided missile frigate, was commissioned into the Indian Navy at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. The ship’s name, Tushil, translates to "Protector Shield.” Also Read : Current Affairs — SSB Interview Material — English Study Material — AFCAT CDS NDA NCERT Notes
About INS Tushil
INS Tushil is a state-of-the-art warship, part of the upgraded Krivak III class frigates under Project 1135.6. Out of this project, six ships are already in service with the Indian Navy.
These include three Talwar-class frigates, built at the Baltiysky shipyard in St. Petersburg, and three Teg-class frigates, constructed at the Yantar shipyard in Kaliningrad.
INS Tushil, the seventh frigate in the series, is the first of two additional upgraded ships ordered under a contract signed in October 2016. The agreement was finalized between JSC Rosoboronexport, the Indian Navy, and the Government of India.
The ship incorporates 26 percent indigenous technology, with over 33 systems developed by Indian manufacturers.
Designed for versatile blue-water operations, INS Tushil can operate effectively across all four dimensions—air, surface, underwater, and electromagnetic.
Weapon System:
At 125 meters in length and displacing 3,900 tons, INS Tushil is equipped with advanced weaponry
The ship is armed with advanced weaponry, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, jointly developed by India & Russia, and vertically-launched Shtil surface-to-air missiles with extended range.
It also features an upgraded medium-range gun for engaging air and surface targets, a rapid-fire close-range gun system with optical control, anti-submarine torpedoes, and rockets.
Furthermore, the ship boasts advanced electronic warfare and communication systems.
INS Tushil is capable of carrying upgraded helicopters, such as the Kamov 28 (anti-submarine) and Kamov 31 (airborne early warning), further enhancing its operational flexibility.
The frigate is powered by a cutting-edge gas turbine propulsion system with advanced controls, enabling it to reach speeds of over 30 knots.
The ship’s keel was laid on July 12, 2013 and was launched in water in October 2021. The ship sailed out for her maiden sea trials on January 25, 2024.
The ship has successfully carried out firing trials of all her Russian weapon systems and would reach India in near combat-ready condition.
The ship will be assigned to the Western Fleet under the Western Naval Command, joining the “Sword Arm” of the Indian Navy.
What is a frigate?
A frigate is a type of warship designed for various naval operations, including escorting larger vessels, conducting patrols, and engaging in combat with enemy ships, aircraft, or submarines. Frigates are versatile ships and play a crucial role in modern navies worldwide.
