As a part of the Indian Navy’s overseas deployment to the Gulf, two Indian warships INS Rajput and INS Betwa, will visit Abu Dhabi between August 27-30. These ships are a part of the Western and Eastern Naval Commands based at Mumbai and Visakhapatnam respectively.

INS Rajput, flying the flag of Rear Admiral Shekhar Sinha, NM & Bar, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, is the first Kashin II class Guided missile destroyer. She is fitted with an array of weapons and sensors and is designed for multi-dimensional combat operations. The capability of the ship has been further enhanced by the fitment and successful firing of indigenous BrahMos surface to- surface missile. The ship is commanded by Captain AK Jain.

The Guided Missile Frigate, INS Betwa commanded by Captain Sanjay Bhutani, is a modern Indian built and designed warship has enhanced capabilities in conducting maritime operations in all three dimensions. The ship is one of three of its class built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata. The ship boasts of state-of-the-art radar, missile systems, sonars and electronic warfare suites. This ship has twin hangars and operates ‘Sea-king’ as well as ‘Chetak’ helicopters.

Over the years, Indian warships have regularly paid visits to ports in the Gulf, reaffirming their presence and solidarity for peace with countries in the region. The commitment of India to honour friendship and promote stability amongst maritime neighbours was tested during the Tsunami disaster that struck Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Maldives apart from the Eastern Indian shores in December 2004, when Indian ships and aircraft were among the first to provide relief and humanitarian aid. The Indian Navy was also in action during Operation Sukoon in 2006 when citizens of many nations were evacuated from the war- torn zone in Lebanon.

The present visit seeks to foster maritime goodwill between India and UAE that share a rich cultural and maritime heritage. The bridges of friendship that the ships of Indian Navy aim to build with this visit would serve to bring the two nations closer, enhance existing bonds between India and UAE and cement ties for greater engagement in the years ahead.

For further information, please contact:

Mrs. Susan Joseph
Attache(Information)
Embassy of India
Abu Dhabi

Tel    : 4447769
Fax   : 4444685
Email: indiauae@emirates.net.ae