AMN
Port Al-Jubail, May 21, 2023 – Marking a significant milestone in the growing defense cooperation between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the INS TARKASH, the flagship frigate of the Indian Western Naval Fleet, along with the INS SUBHADRA, an offshore patrol vessel, arrived at Port Al-Jubail today. The visit of these ships signifies the beginning of the harbor phase of the second edition of the naval exercise between the two nations, known as ‘AL-MOHED AL-HINDI 2023.’ This year, the naval exercise also includes the participation of a maritime patrol aircraft. The inaugural edition of the exercise was successfully conducted in 2021.
Commissioned on November 9, 2012, INS TARKASH is a state-of-the-art stealth frigate of the Talwar class. Equipped with advanced weapon-sensor technology, the vessel possesses the capability to address threats in all dimensions. Its design incorporates stealth technologies and a specialized hull for reduced radar cross-section. Notably, INS TARKASH features a range of naval systems of Indian origin. The name of the ship, derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Tarkash,’ meaning “Quiver of Arrows,” pays homage to its agility and versatility. In the past, INS TARKASH has actively participated in humanitarian missions, such as Operation Raahat in 2015 for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Yemen, and most recently, Operation Kaveri in April 2023 for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Sudan.
Accompanying INS TARKASH is the INS SUBHADRA, a patrol vessel of the Sukanya class. This vessel has served as a test bed for the Dhanush ship-launched ballistic missile, as well as associated stabilization and launch platforms.
‘AL-MOHED AL-HINDI 2023,’ which commenced today, encompasses a series of exercises conducted on land and at sea by the two friendly navies. Upon their arrival at Jubail port, the Indian ships received a warm welcome from officials of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, Border Guards, and the Indian Embassy, highlighting the cordial relations between the two countries.
The arrival of INS TARKASH and INS SUBHADRA and the commencement of the naval exercise demonstrate the deepening defense ties between India and Saudi Arabia. This collaboration serves to enhance maritime security, promote information sharing, and foster greater interoperability between the Indian and Saudi naval forces, ultimately contributing to regional stability in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf region.