Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tarkash, a stealth frigate of the Indian Navy, arrived at Port Victoria in Seychelles on June 12 as part of its ongoing operational deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region. The visit marks another step in the growing maritime cooperation between India and Seychelles and follows the successful escort of Seychelles Coast Guard vessel PS Zoroaster from India to Seychelles after the completion of its refit at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

Escort mission highlights maritime cooperation

According to the Indian Navy, INS Tarkash escorted PS Zoroaster during its transit from India to Seychelles after the vessel underwent maintenance and refit work at GRSE. Officials said the mission reflects the longstanding maritime partnership between the two countries, extending beyond defence cooperation to include shipbuilding, maintenance and operational support. The transit also demonstrated interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Seychelles Coast Guard, highlighting efforts to address shared maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region.

Official engagements planned

During the port call, Commanding Officer of INS Tarkash, Captain Rohit Mishra, is scheduled to meet senior officials from the Government of Seychelles and the Seychelles Defence Forces. The engagements are expected to focus on strengthening defence cooperation, maritime security collaboration and broader bilateral relations. In addition to official meetings, cultural and social interactions are also planned during the ship’s stay in Seychelles.

Support to Seychelles government

As part of the visit, India will hand over critical spares and essential stores to the Government of Seychelles. Officials said the assistance reflects India’s continued commitment to supporting the operational capabilities of Seychelles’ maritime forces and enhancing regional security cooperation. The gesture is also viewed as part of India’s broader engagement with partner nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

Focus on regional security

The Indian Navy stated that the deployment of INS Tarkash is part of ongoing efforts to maintain a sustained presence in the South West Indian Ocean and strengthen cooperation with friendly foreign nations. India and Seychelles have maintained close maritime relations over the years, particularly in areas such as coastal surveillance, maritime domain awareness, capacity building and defence cooperation.

What happens next?

The port call is expected to further strengthen camaraderie, mutual trust and operational cooperation between the two countries.

Following the completion of scheduled engagements and activities in Seychelles, INS Tarkash is expected to continue its operational deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region as part of India’s ongoing maritime outreach and security initiatives.