NEW DELHI: Aiming to strengthen ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, INS Tamal, a Talwar-class stealth frigate, and INS Surat, the latest indigenously constructed guided-missile destroyer of the Indian Navy, arrived at Jeddah on 27 and 28 August 2025, respectively.
The Indian Navy (IN) in its statement said, "During the port call, the crew will engage with the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) and Border Guards through sports fixtures, familiarisation with naval facilities and discussions towards fostering Indo-Saudi Arabian relations."
The Navy said the visit underscores India's commitment to strengthening defence collaboration and friendly ties with Saudi Arabia. It will also provide an opportunity for both navies to share best practices and explore avenues for further engagement.
The Indian side will host a cultural exchange for senior dignitaries of the RSNF, Border Guards, diplomats, prominent members of the diaspora and local government officials, the IN added.
As reported in detail earlier by The New Indian Express, INS Tamal (F71), a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, was commissioned in July at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia.
INS Tamal is the eighth multi-role stealth frigate in the series of Project 1135.6 and the second of the additional follow-on Tushil class of ships. The first ship of the Tushil class (INS Tushil) was commissioned on 09 December 2024 in the presence of the Defence Minister.
TNIE reported on INS Surat, which was commissioned this January, is the latest indigenous guided-missile destroyer of the Indian Navy. Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, Mumbai, and designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau, the ship is a shining example of Atma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and boasts an indigenous content of over 75%.