INS Tarkash makes port at Karlskrona as Indian Navy returns to Swedish shores after 15 years

In a significant port call, Indian Navy's frontline warship -INS Tarkash, on Friday, has made port at Karlskrona, Sweden. This marks the first visit of an Indian Naval Ship to Swedish shores after a gap of more than 15 years, as per sources.

Here are visuals of INS Tarkash as it comes through the last loch of the Kiel Canal northbound:

India and Sweden Navy relations

Sources report that during the ship's three-day visit, professional interactions, sports, and social engagements have been planned to further enhance and strengthen the maritime cooperation between the two countries while pursuing the common goal of safe and secure seas. The visit is part of Indian Navy's mission of building 'Bridges of Friendship' and strengthening international cooperation with friendly countries.

The current visit seeks to underscore India's peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly countries, thereby allowing both India and Sweden to meet the growing challenges of the maritime environment. India and Sweden have had a number of high-level bilateral visits and interactions which has resulted in rapid growth in relations across a broad spectrum. The two navies have also been regular contributors to global operations against piracy.

What is INS Tarkash?

INS Tarkash, commanded by Captain Sathish Vasudev, is a state-of-the-art stealth frigate of the Indian Navy. It is equipped with a versatile range of weapons and sensors capable of addressing threats in all three dimensions. The ship is a part of the Indian Navy's Western Fleet and is under the operational command of Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command.

Indian Navy in Oman

Earlier in June, amid rising tensions between the US and Iran as well as recent incidents related to maritime security, the Indian Navy has deployed its warships in the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf to reassure the Indian vessels operating and transiting in the region.

"INS Chennai and INS Sunayna have been deployed in the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf to undertake maritime security operations. In addition, aerial surveillance by IN aircraft is also being undertaken in the area," the Navy said.

India's strategic and security interests are closely linked to the Indian Ocean Region. The country's energy security is also linked to the safety and security of ships while operating and transiting in the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf.