Minor delay in project 11356M stealth-guided missile frigates for Indian Navy

The delivery of cutting-edge stealth-guided missile frigates for the Indian Navy, as part of Project 11356M, is experiencing a minor delay, according to Alexey Rakhmanov, the CEO of the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC). While construction and trials are progressing according to refined schedules, certain aspects are encountering a delay of less than six months. 

Rakhmanov stated in an interview with Russian state owned media RIA Novosti, "Currently, the construction of the ships and the trials are proceeding according to refined schedules. There is a minor delay for certain components, which is less than six months. Trial runs of diesel generators have been successfully conducted for the first of the two frigates, and preparations for mooring trials are currently underway."

The new Talwar frigates: Ongoing tale of India-Russia's naval collaboration

These frigates are the result of a collaborative effort between Russia and India, representing advancement in naval technology cooperation. In 2018, a contract was signed for the construction of four Project 11356M frigates. Two are being constructed at Russia's Yantar Shipyard, while the remaining two are being built at India's Goa Shipyard Ltd. The Indian Navy already operates six Talwar-class frigates, also known as Project 1135.6M. These guided-missile frigates, originally designed and built by Russia, have been enhanced with "Make in India" sub-systems. These follow-on frigates will integrate more advanced weapon systems and an improved sensor suite.

The minor delay is also attributed to the testing phase before the vessels' delivery. Mooring trials, which evaluate the performance of equipment and machinery while the frigates are docked, and are a crucial part of this testing process.

How powerful are the Navy's new frigates?

The Project 11356M frigates have been engineered to excel in diverse combat scenarios, possessing the versatility to operate autonomously as well as serve as escorts within larger naval formations, including Carrier Battle Groups. Their capabilities encompass anti-submarine warfare, air defence, and amphibious operations. The frigates of Project 11356 are also capable of countering submarines and warships in both littoral and open waters, while also being equipped to repel air attacks independently or as part of formations. They are armed with an A-190 100 mm artillery gun and anti-aircraft missiles such as Shtil. Additionally, they can carry cruise missiles like the Kalibr, and the Indian variants will feature the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. Torpedoes are also part of their armament. These warships can accommodate a Ka-27 helicopter or its variants to further enhance their anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance capabilities. With a displacement of over 3620 tons and a length of 124.8 metres, they can achieve a top speed of 30 knots and a cruising range of 4850 miles.

These frigates will significantly contribute to the Indian Navy's expanding capabilities, complementing recent additions such as advanced warships, missile corvettes, and an indigenous aircraft carrier. The inclusion of combat helicopters, notably choppers from the Kamov family, enhances their effectiveness, particularly in anti-submarine warfare operations. With a maximum speed of 30 knots and the ability to operate continuously for 30 days without refuelling, these frigates are highly capable assets.

Initially, Yantar Shipyard was tasked with constructing six frigates for the Black Sea fleet under the project, resulting in the vessels Admiral Grigorovich, Admiral Essen, and Admiral Makarov. However, construction was halted when Ukraine declined to supply engines for the frigates. Currently, two frigates, the Tushil and the Tamala, are under construction for India.