Indian Navy's Self-Reliance Enhanced with Launch of Frigate 'Tavasya'
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Indian Navy celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of frigate 'Tavasya,' marking progress in self-reliance and indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. The event reflects India's strategic ambitions in maritime defence.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of frigate Tavasya at Goa Shipyard Limited.
- Part of Project 1135.6, enhancing naval self-reliance.
- Significant indigenisation in critical components.
- Named after a legendary mace symbolising strength.
- Supports India's strategic defence objectives.
Goa, March 22 (NationPress) The second frigate of the Project 1135.6 Additional Follow-on Ships, named Tavasya, was launched at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) on Saturday.
The launch ceremony was led by MoS Defence Sanjay Seth, accompanied by FOC-in-C West Vice Admiral Sanjay J. Singh. Neeta Seth, the wife of MoS Defence, had the distinguished role of launching the vessel, as stated in a government press release.
The Tavasya is part of the Follow-on series of P1135.6 ships, currently being built indigenously by Indian shipyards, marking a notable achievement in the nation’s quest for self-reliance in naval defence capabilities.
In his address, the minister underscored the Indian Navy’s increasing self-sufficiency, asserting that the launch of Tavasya represents a critical juncture in India’s naval history.
He remarked: "This launch highlights our technological capabilities and unwavering dedication to self-reliance."
The Minister further discussed the achievements in indigenisation, mentioning that vital components such as the BrahMos missile system, torpedo launchers, sonar, and auxiliary control systems are sourced locally. "The successful localisation of these essential systems underscores the resilience of India’s shipbuilding industry," he noted.
He also remarked: "The launch of Tavasya is not just a progression for the Indian Navy but a monumental leap for India’s strategic defence goals."
The ship is named Tavasya, after the legendary mace of Bhima, the warrior from the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, symbolising the unyielding spirit and growing strength of the Indian Navy.
The agreement for the construction of two Project 1135.6 Follow-on frigates was formalised between the Ministry of Defence and Goa Shipyard Limited on January 25, 2019. The first vessel, Triput, was launched on July 23, 2024.
Both Triput and Tavasya are engineered for multi-role missions, encompassing surface, sub-surface, and aerial combat. The ships measure 124.8 metres in length, 15.2 metres in width, and have a displacement of roughly 3,600 tonnes.
They can reach a maximum speed of 28 knots.
Both frigates integrate a significant proportion of indigenous equipment, weaponry, and sensors, bolstering India’s defence production capabilities and fostering job creation within the nation.
With sophisticated stealth characteristics, armament, sensors, and platform management systems, these vessels are set to elevate the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.
The successful launch of Tavasya reinforces India's advancement towards self-sufficiency in defence production and fortifies the nation’s maritime security.
