Indian Navy to recommission Maldives-gifted, decommissioned ship

The Indian Navy is set to re-induct a refurbished 22-year-old fast attack craft, INS Tarmugli, in a ceremonial commissioning ceremony at the naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam. This event marks a significant milestone, as INS Tarmugli returns to active service more than seventeen years after being gifted to the Maldives and subsequently returned to India in May of the current year.

A Unique Journey of Service

“The ship has a unique distinction of having served under the flag of two nations with three names during her distinguished service till date,” stated a Navy spokesperson. Originally commissioned in the Indian Navy as INS Tillanchang, a Trinkat Class ship, it served actively until 2006.

Diplomatic Outreach to Maldives

As part of diplomatic outreach in the Indian Ocean Region, the Government of India gifted INS Tillanchang to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) in 2006. Renamed MCGS Huravee, the ship played a crucial role in the Maldivian maritime security framework until its decommissioning in May 2023. Before being handed back to India, Huravee underwent a refit at the naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam in November 2018. This refitting was conducted by the Indian Navy to strengthen diplomatic ties with the Maldives.

Changing Tides: India’s Response to Evolving Diplomatic Relations

Recent political developments in the Maldives, particularly the election of President Mohamed Muizzu, have led to a shift in diplomatic relations. President Muizzu, expressing a preference towards China, requested the withdrawal of Indian armed forces stationed in the country for security purposes. In response, India agreed to withdraw its 75 personnel, marking a change in the security dynamics between the two nations.

The Return and Refurbishment of INS Tarmugli

Following the political shifts and the return of MCGS Huravee to India, the Indian Navy decided to examine, refurbish, and re-induct the vessel into its force levels. The ship, originally designed and constructed by Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, underwent extensive repair and upgrading at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, over the last six months.

Commissioning Ceremony and Future Role

INS Tarmugli is scheduled to be commissioned in a ceremony where Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Materiel, will serve as the chief guest. This marks a new chapter in the life of the vessel, now bearing the name INS Tarmugli, as it resumes active duty in the Indian Navy.