INS Tabar Reaches Saint Petersburg for Russian Navy Day Celebrations

INS Tabar, a frontline frigate of the Indian Navy, arrived in Saint Petersburg to participate in the 328th Russian Navy Day celebrations. The ship, part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet based in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command, was warmly welcomed by the Russian Federation Navy (RuFN). The visit is set to strengthen maritime cooperation and interoperability between the two navies, aligning with India’s policy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

Key Highlights

Professional Interactions and PASSEX

During its stay, INS Tabar will engage in professional interactions and a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) with the Russian Navy.

Naval Parade Participation

The ship joins a fleet of around 200 ships and boats from various classes, including foreign combat ships like the Algerian Navy’s training ship Soummam and the Chinese guided missile destroyer Jiaozuo.

Vessels Featured

The parade featured Russian vessels like the Project 22800 Karakurt-class missile corvette Odintsovo and the Project 636.3 Varshavyanka-class submarine Mozhaisk.

Leadership and Crew

INS Tabar is commanded by Captain MR Harish and has a complement of 280 personnel. It is equipped with a versatile range of weapons and sensors and is one of the earliest stealth frigates in the Indian Navy.

Russian President’s Greetings

Russian President Vladimir Putin greeted the Indian Navy personnel onboard INS Tabar, as he reviewed the Main Naval Parade on the Neva River. The tradition of holding the Main Naval Parade in St. Petersburg began in 2017 to honor the significant contributions of the Russian Navy.

Cultural and Diplomatic Significance

The visit of INS Tabar underscores the strong maritime cooperation between India and Russia, reflecting the broader diplomatic ties under the ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”