Indian Navy Launches Frigate ‘Tavasya’ Under Project 1135.6

The Indian Navy has launched its second Project 1135.6 follow-on frigate, ‘Tavasya’, at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). The warship is designed for multi-role combat operations across air, surface, and sub-surface domains. This marks a significant step in India’s self-reliance in warship construction under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Key Highlights

Launch & Specifications

• ‘Tavasya’ launched at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
• Measures 124.8m in length, 15.2m in width, and 4.5m draught.
• Speed: Can reach up to 28 knots.
• Displacement: Over 3,800 tonnes.

Combat Capabilities

• Engineered for surface, sub-surface, and air warfare.
• Equipped with stealth technology, advanced weapons, sensors, and platform management systems.
• Incorporates indigenous weapons such as the BrahMos missile system, torpedo launchers, sonar, and auxiliary control systems.

Project 1135.6 & Indo-Russian Collaboration

• India and Russia signed a 2016 agreement for four additional stealth frigates.
• Two ships were to be built in Russia, and two at GSL under technology transfer.
• ‘Tavasya’ is the final vessel in this series and the second constructed at GSL.
• The first vessel, ‘Triput’, was launched on July 23, 2024.

Strategic Significance

• Advances India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
• Aligns with Rs 500 billion ($5.85 billion) defence export goal by 2029.
• Strengthens India’s shipbuilding ecosystem and naval power.

Statements from Leaders

• State Defence Minister Sanjay Seth emphasized India’s technological advancements and the launch’s role in strengthening strategic defence ambitions.
• GSL CMD Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay highlighted GSL’s growth from a mid-sized shipbuilder to a premier defence shipyard.

Past Developments

• INS Tushil, the first of two additional upgraded Talwar-class frigates, was commissioned in December 2024 in Russia.
• Six ships from Project 1135.6 are already in service, including three Talwar-class and three Teg-class frigates.