In a testament to India’s maritime prowess, the Indian Navy yesterday commissioned the INS Tarmugli, a Fast Attack Craft (FAC) reborn with a new mission. Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, AVSM, VSM, Chief of Materiel, Indian Navy, officially welcomed the warship back into service, marking a remarkable transformation from a gifted vessel to a formidable guardian of India’s coastlines.
The story of INS Tarmugli is one of both generosity and resilience. Originally a Trinkat Class FAC gifted to the Maldivian Naval Defence Forces in 2006, the ship returned to India in May 2023. Instead of retiring, the Tarmugli underwent extensive restoration at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, emerging as a potent symbol of India’s commitment to self-reliance and maritime security.
Now propelled by advanced MTU engines and water jet propulsion, the Tarmugli boasts cutting-edge technology. Equipped with the latest communication equipment, a 30mm gun, and a sophisticated radar system, it is primed for a variety of crucial tasks:
- Coastal Surveillance: The Tarmugli’s agility and advanced sensors will keep a watchful eye on India’s coastlines, deterring threats and ensuring maritime safety.
- Protecting Offshore Assets: The warship will play a vital role in safeguarding the Offshore Development Areas (ODAs) in the KG Basin, a critical energy source for the nation.
- Securing the Eastern Seaboard: With its impressive speed and firepower, the Tarmugli will be a formidable presence along the entire eastern coast of India, deterring any potential threats.
Commanded by the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Andhra Pradesh), the Tarmugli carries the name of a picturesque island in the Andamans, reflecting its island-hopping agility and watchful gaze. Its 320-tonne body and 48-meter length belie its impressive capabilities, allowing it to slice through the waves at speeds exceeding 30 knots.
The commissioning of INS Tarmugli is not just a celebration of engineering prowess, but a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to securing its maritime borders. It is a story of rebirth, resilience, and a renewed promise to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests. As the Tarmugli sets sail on its new mission, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of a nation, ready to stand guard against any threat.