Stealth frigate INS Tabar was built for the Indian Navy in St Petersburg’s Baltic Shipyard
The Indian Navy continues to build on the close ties the country has forged across the world with displays of naval might and camaraderie. The most recent example is that of INS Tabar, the India’s Navy stealth frigate, which sailed into the Russian port of St Petersburg to participate in the Russian Navy Day celebrations on July 28, 2024. INS Tabar also participated in a PASSEX (Passing Exercise) with the Russian Navy on July, 30, 2024.
 
After calling at St Petersburg from July 25-30, 2024, INS Tabar is now headed for London from August 7-11, 2024, where it will berth alongside HMS Belfast.
 
Impressive Display of Naval Camaraderie

The Russian Navy Day celebrations, held on the Neva River in St. Petersburg, marked the 328th anniversary of the Russian Navy and featured an impressive parade of naval forces from Russia and allied nations.
 
The Main Naval Parade on the Neva River has become a significant tradition in Russia, honouring the victories and contributions of the Russian Navy in defending the Fatherland. Established in 2017, this parade showcases the strength and capabilities of the Russian naval forces, and this year was no exception.
 
The parade included a fleet of 20 surface ships and gunboats, four sailing vessels, and a submarine. Among the Russian combat ships were notable vessels such as the Project 22800 Karakurt-class missile corvette Odintsovo, the Project 20380 missile corvette Boiky, the Project 12700 coastal minesweeper Alexander Obukhov, and the Project 21631 missile corvettes Grad, Naro-Fominsk, Grad Sviyazhsk, and Serpukhov. Additionally, the Project 23550 icebreaking patrol ship Ivan Papanin and the Project 636.3 Varshavyanka-class large diesel-electric submarine Mozhaisk made their presence felt.
 
Foreign participation added a global touch to the event, with the Indian Navy's INS Tabar, the Algerian Navy's training ship Soummam, and the Chinese guided missile destroyer Jiaozuo taking part in the parade. Nearly 2,500 troops marched in foot columns on Senate Square, concluding the grand display of naval prowess.
 
INS Tabar arrived at St. Petersburg to a warm welcome from the Russian Navy; the personnel on board also received greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
 
INS Tabar’s visit highlighted the strong maritime cooperation between India and Russia. The Indian Navy spokesperson noted that the visit of INS Tabar to Russia strengthens the interoperability between the two navies and aligns with the Indian government's policy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" - the world is one family.
 
On social media, the Indian Navy spokesperson posted, "#INSTabar arrived at St Petersburg, Russia to a warm welcome ceremony by the #RuFN. The ship's visit to Russia incl participation in 328th #RussianNavyDay celebration, professional interactions & conduct of PASSEX b/n both navies. This visit further strengthens #maritime cooperation b/n the two nations, underpinned by the #interoperability b/n the navies & is aligned to GoI's policy of #VasudhaivaKutumbakam."
 
INS Tabar, a Talwar-class multi-role stealth frigate, was built for the Indian Navy in St. Petersburg's Baltic Shipyard and commissioned into service on April 19, 2004, in Kaliningrad. The frigate, commanded by Captain MR Harish, carries a crew of 280 officers and sailors and is equipped with a versatile range of weapons and sensors. With a top speed of over 30 knots (over 55 kilometres per hour), INS Tabar is designed for a variety of combat operations against surface vessels, submarines, and aerial targets.
 
The participation of INS Tabar in Russia's Navy Day celebrations is not a first. The ship had previously visited Russia for the Main Naval Parade on July 25, 2021, marking the 325th anniversary of the Russian Navy. The Indian Navy's continued participation underscores the long-standing naval cooperation between India and Russia.
 
The visit of INS Tabar to Russia is seen as a significant step in strengthening the maritime cooperation between the two nations. The Indian Navy spokesperson emphasized that the visit aligns with the broader strategic partnership between India and Russia, which is built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared interests.
 
During its stay in St. Petersburg, INS Tabar participated in various professional interactions with the Russian Navy, further enhancing the interoperability between the two forces. These interactions included joint exercises and exchange programs, which are crucial for fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.
 
Before arriving in Russia, INS Tabar made a port call in Hamburg, Germany, where it anchored for three days. The visit to Germany included professional exchanges with the German Navy and allowed the public to come onboard, showcasing the capabilities of the Indian Navy's frontline warship.
 
Russia's Navy Day celebrations in St. Petersburg are a testament to the rich naval heritage and the modern capabilities of the Russian Navy. The inclusion of foreign naval ships, such as INS Tabar, highlights the importance of international cooperation in maintaining maritime security and stability.