In a bid to enhance maritime cooperation and foster stronger ties, the Indian Navy and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Naval Force are all set to embark on a bilateral naval exercise named ‘Zayed Talwar’. Scheduled to take place from the 8th to the 11th of August 2023, this exercise holds significance in bolstering the maritime partnership between the two nations and promoting a collective understanding of security challenges in the region.
A Meeting of Naval Forces: Exercise ‘Zayed Talwar’
The ‘Zayed Talwar’ exercise marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic and strategic relationship between India and the UAE. This joint exercise will witness the participation of two formidable ships of the Indian Navy: INS Visakhapatnam and INS Trikand. The primary objective of this exercise is to engage in professional interactions and knowledge-sharing with the UAE Naval Force, focusing on various elements of maritime operations. This exchange of expertise aims to fortify cooperation and collaboration between the two naval forces, thereby fostering an environment of mutual growth and understanding.
Enhanced Cooperation
During the ‘Zayed Talwar’ exercise, INS Visakhapatnam and INS Trikand will engage in a series of activities aimed at strengthening their operational capabilities and reinforcing their strategic alignment. The exercise will serve as a platform for the exchange of best practices, insights, and experiences, contributing to the development of more effective strategies for maritime security and operations. By working together and sharing their knowledge, both naval forces aim to enhance their readiness to address emerging challenges and maintain peace and stability in the region.
INS Visakhapatnam: Leading the Charge
At the heart of the ‘Zayed Talwar’ exercise is the INS Visakhapatnam, the lead ship and the pride of the Indian Navy’s Visakhapatnam-class stealth guided-missile destroyers. Commissioned on November 21, 2021, this vessel stands as a testament to India’s commitment to maintaining a modern and capable naval fleet. Boasting a displacement of 7,400 tonnes, the INS Visakhapatnam is one of the largest destroyers in the Indian Navy’s service.
Features of INS Visakhapatnam
The INS Visakhapatnam is powered by four potent Gas Turbines, configured in a Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) setup. This configuration grants the ship the capability to achieve speeds exceeding 30 knots, making it a force to be reckoned with on the high seas. What sets this vessel apart is its advanced stealth features, which significantly reduce its Radar Cross Section (RCS). Achieved through meticulous hull shaping, a full beam superstructure design, plated masts, and the use of radar-transparent materials on exposed decks, these features render the ship highly elusive and difficult to detect.
Equipped for Any Challenge: INS Visakhapatnam’s Capabilities
The INS Visakhapatnam is not only a powerhouse in terms of speed and stealth but also holds the ability to operate effectively under demanding conditions, including Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) warfare scenarios. This versatile destroyer is equipped with state-of-the-art systems and weaponry, making it an invaluable asset to the Indian Navy’s fleet and a crucial participant in exercises like ‘Zayed Talwar’.
