In a momentous event, the Indian Navy is set to re-induct the INS Tarmugli, a 22-year-old fast attack craft, with a rich history of serving under two nations and bearing three names during its distinguished tenure. This ceremonial commissioning, scheduled at the naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam, marks a significant milestone for the vessel, which is making its return to the Indian Navy after over seventeen years, following its gift and subsequent decommissioning by the Maldives.
A spokesperson for the Navy highlighted the unique distinction of the ship, initially commissioned as INS Tillanchang, belonging to the Trinkat Class. It served actively in the Indian Navy until 2006 when it was bestowed upon the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) by the Government of India, as a gesture of diplomatic goodwill within the Indian Ocean Region.
Under the Maldivian flag, the vessel was christened MCGS Huravee and dutifully served the MNDF until its decommissioning in May 2023. However, the dynamics of diplomatic ties shifted after Mohamed Muizzu's election victory, signaling a change in allegiances, especially toward China. President Muizzu's request for the withdrawal of Indian armed forces stationed in the Maldives further delineated this altered course in relations.
Consequently, the Indian Navy received the returned ship and provided a replacement—an in-service waterjet fast attack craft, subsequently named INS Tarmugli, to the MNDF as the new MCGS Huravee.
Following a thorough examination, the decision was made to refurbish, repair, and reintroduce the vessel into the Indian Navy's force composition. Over a period of six months, the Indian Navy undertook extensive repair and upgrading operations at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, preparing the ship for recommissioning.
The ceremonial recommissioning of the vessel as 'INS Tarmugli' will be graced by Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Materiel, emphasizing the significance of this event in the naval calendar.
Originally crafted by Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, the ship, with its renewed vigor and refurbished capabilities, stands as a testament to the intertwined naval heritage between nations and the evolving landscape of diplomatic relations in the Indian Ocean Region.
