SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Navy’s frontline frigate, INS Tabar, has arrived in St. Petersburg, Russia, to participate in the grand Russian Navy Day celebrations. However, closer inspection of the warship has revealed intriguing details about its recent operational history. Clear drone kill marks, absent in earlier photographs, are now visible on the ship’s hull.
This discovery has ignited speculation about the frigate’s involvement in intense maritime operations. Earlier this year, India deployed a significant naval force to the Red Sea to counter the growing threat of piracy and drone attacks. The region has been under siege by the Houthi rebels, who have employed Iranian-made Shahed-136 drones to target commercial vessels. The drone’s kill figure on the warship, particularly its distinctive cropped delta-wing shape, with a central fuselage blending, aligns with the design of the Shahed-136 drones.
The Indian Navy has been vigilant in protecting vital shipping lanes in the Red Sea, a critical artery for global trade. The recent attack on the MV Chem Pluto, suspected to be carried out by a Shahed-136 drone, underscores the severity of the threat. Indian Navy’s role in containing the fire onboard the stricken vessel further highlights the Indian Navy’s proactive stance in safeguarding maritime security.
The appearance of drone kill marks on INS Tabar could be first incidents where rogue drones were brought down by Indian Navy. INS Tabar is equipped with Shtil-1 medium range missiles and Kashtan CIWS. Indian Navy has not confirmed how and where this drones were brought down.