Indian Naval Ships Tamal and Surat arrived at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on August 27 and 28 respectively, marking a significant step in bolstering Indo-Saudi defence cooperation. INS Tamal, the eighth Talwar-class stealth frigate, and INS Surat, India’s latest indigenously built guided-missile destroyer, are on a port call aimed at enhancing bilateral naval engagement.
During their stay, the crew will participate in joint activities with the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and Border Guards, including sports fixtures, facility familiarisation, and strategic discussions. The Indian Navy will also host a cultural exchange for senior Saudi dignitaries, diplomats, members of the Indian diaspora, and local officials.
The visit underscores India’s commitment to deepening defence collaboration and fostering friendly ties with Saudi Arabia. It provides a platform for both navies to share best practices and explore avenues for future engagement. The deployment of these advanced warships reflects India’s growing maritime capabilities and its strategic outreach in the Gulf region.
