In a landmark event, the Indian Navy’s newly inducted stealth-guided missile frigate, INS Tushil, successfully docked at Walvis Bay, Namibia, following a patrol mission in the Gulf of Guinea. It marks the frigate’s maiden voyage along the west coast of Africa, underscoring India’s commitment to bolstering maritime cooperation in the region.
“The visit was aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between India and Namibia, with a focus on enhancing maritime cooperation and tackling common threats,” the Indian Navy stated.
During its stay, INS Tushil engaged in a range of activities designed to foster professional, cultural, and social camaraderie with the Namibian Navy. Key highlights included a meeting between Captain Peter Varghese, Commanding Officer of INS Tushil, and prominent Namibian officials, including Saara Ndapewoshali Mutondoka, Deputy Mayor of Walvis Bay, and Rear Admiral Junior Grade Eratus Lazarus, Commander of Naval Operations for the Namibian Navy.
Professional interactions during the visit featured joint operational planning sessions, cross-deck visits, and knowledge-sharing exchanges between naval personnel. The engagement also extended beyond official duties, with friendly volleyball matches, a joint yoga session, and participation from the Namibian Navy, local police personnel, and the High Commission of India staff.
As part of its community outreach, INS Tushil welcomed residents of Walvis Bay aboard, offering them a glimpse of the warship’s advanced capabilities and showcasing the Indian Navy’s technological prowess.
The visit of INS Tushil to Namibia highlights the growing maritime partnership between India and Namibia and reflects India’s broader commitment to peace, stability, and collaboration across the Indian Ocean and African maritime domain.
INS Tushil was built by the Yantar shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia, and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 9 December 2024. The ship’s maiden operational deployment began on 17 December 2024, when it set sail from Kaliningrad to India. During its journey, INS Tushil made port calls to several friendly countries, including London, Dakar, and Senegal. The ship also participated in joint patrolling and maritime partnership exercises with other navies along the way.
Team BharatShakti
