Why in news?
In late March 2026 the Indian Navy’s guided‑missile frigate INS Trikand made a port call at Maputo, Mozambique, delivering humanitarian relief and conducting training and community outreach. Earlier in the month the ship participated in Mauritius’s National Day parade, highlighting India’s commitment to regional maritime partnerships.
Background
INS Trikand is a Talwar‑class frigate built at Russia’s Yantar shipyard and commissioned into the Indian Navy in June 2013. Assigned to the Western Fleet, it is part of the Navy’s blue‑water force that safeguards India’s maritime interests from the Gulf of Aden to the South China Sea.
Capabilities of INS Trikand
- Weapon systems: The ship is armed with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles for anti‑ship and land‑attack roles, a medium‑range A190 naval gun, Shtil‑1 surface‑to‑air missiles, two AK‑630 close‑in weapon systems, heavyweight torpedoes and anti‑submarine rockets.
- Sensors and combat management: It uses the Trebovanie‑M combat management system, advanced radars and sonars to detect threats and coordinate weapons. Electronic warfare suites protect against enemy missiles and torpedoes.
- Propulsion: Four gas turbines drive the ship to speeds exceeding 30 knots. High manoeuvrability allows quick response in combat or humanitarian missions.
- Embarked helicopter: A Kamov Ka‑31 or Ka‑28 helicopter operates from the flight deck, extending the ship’s surveillance and anti‑submarine reach.
Port calls and diplomacy
During its visit to Mauritius, INS Trikand’s crew marched in the National Day parade, performed cultural programmes and trained the Mauritius National Coast Guard. It later sailed to Maputo where it handed over relief supplies for flood‑affected areas, conducted joint drills (PASSEX) with the Mozambique Navy and engaged with local communities.
These activities fit within India’s SAGAR/MAHASAGAR vision, which promotes Security and Growth for All in the Region by enhancing maritime cooperation, building capacity and being a first responder during crises.
Sources: News on Air.
