India marked a significant milestone in its naval modernization journey with the launch of the stealth frigate ‘Tavasya’ on March 22, 2025. The event, held at Goa Shipyard Limited, celebrated India’s growing self-reliance in defence production. Officiated by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, the launch underscores India’s commitment to indigenizing military technology and bolstering maritime security.
Project 1135.6: The Evolution of Indian Stealth Frigates
‘Tavasya’ is the second frigate in the Project 1135.6 series, commonly referred to as the Talwar-class frigates. This project is a product of Indo-Russian collaboration, originally based on the Krivak III-class design. While the first vessels in this class were built in Russia, subsequent ships, including ‘Tavasya’, are being indigenously constructed in India, reflecting the country’s growing expertise in shipbuilding and defence manufacturing.
Cutting-Edge Specifications
‘Tavasya’ is designed to be a formidable addition to the Indian Navy’s fleet, with specifications that enhance its operational flexibility:
- Length: 124.8 meters
- Beam: 15.2 meters
- Draught: 4.5 meters
- Displacement: Approximately 3,600 tons
- Top Speed: 28 knots
- Propulsion: Combined gas turbine system for enhanced maneuverability and cruising efficiency
Stealth and Combat Capabilities
The frigate features stealth technology, incorporating radar-absorbing materials to reduce its radar cross-section. This enhances its ability to operate undetected in hostile environments. ‘Tavasya’ is equipped with a powerful arsenal of advanced weaponry:
- BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, providing high-precision strike capabilities
- Shtil-1 surface-to-air missiles, offering robust air defence
- 100 mm A-190 naval gun, ensuring effective naval firepower
- Anti-submarine warfare suite, including torpedo tubes and rocket launchers for underwater threats
Indigenous Development: A Leap Towards Self-Reliance
The launch of ‘Tavasya’ represents a significant step in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence technologies. The successful integration of BrahMos missiles, advanced sonar suites, and electronic warfare systems demonstrates India’s shipbuilding capabilities. This aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers while strengthening domestic production capabilities.
Strategic Impact and Future Prospects
With ‘Tavasya’ joining the fleet alongside its sister ship ‘Triput’, launched in July 2024, India is reinforcing its naval strength. These stealth frigates are designed for multi-role operations, making them vital assets in both defensive and offensive maritime strategies. Their deployment will enhance the Indian Navy’s operational reach, enabling it to safeguard national interests across diverse maritime theatres.
As India continues to expand its naval capabilities, the launch of ‘Tavasya’ signals a new era of technological advancement, strategic autonomy, and maritime dominance. With a focus on innovation, security, and self-sufficiency, the Indian Navy is well on course to becoming a formidable force in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.