(Forelines) – The Indian Navy’s newest stealth frigate, INS Tamal, had been stopped in Naples, Italy, from August 13–16, 2025, before heading back to India, India’s Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
The visit demonstrated the two countries’ solid bilateral ties, which were formally upgraded to a Strategic Partnership in 2023.Before approaching the harbor of Naples, INS Tamal took part in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with ITS Trieste, the Italian Navy’s recently commissioned Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD). Communication drills, aviation maneuvers, sea rider exchanges, and a steam past were all part of the joint operations during the PASSEX.
The ship engaged in multiple events aimed at strengthening defense cooperation and partnership between Italy and India while in the port in Naples.
Highlights of the tour included professional exchanges and bilateral talks with local and senior military leaders.
Vice Admiral Pierpaolo Budri, the Chief of Staff of the Italian Navy’s Logistics Command, and Laura Lieto, the Deputy Mayor of Naples, were both visited by the Commanding Officer. A number of projects under the India-Italy Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 were considered by both parties, Ministry of Defence said.
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Along with members of the Italian military industry and United Nations agencies based in Italy, INS Tamal and the Embassy of India in Rome planned a cultural gathering for the Italian Navy, the Diplomatic Corps, and local government officials stationed in Rome, further added.
Vani Rao, the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Italy, also spoke with the Italian Navy’s top brass and the crew of the INS Tamal.
India’s 79th Independence Day was celebrated on board with a ceremonial parade on August 15, 2025. The crew of the ship also took part in the Independence Day festivities at the Indian Embassy in Rome.
The significance India places on its ties with Italy and the efforts to deepen their expanding defense cooperation are demonstrated by the port visit made by INS Tamal.
Additionally, it has given the two navies a chance to exchange best practices and look for more chances for collaboration. In order to further maritime diplomacy and fortify bilateral connections across the spectrum, the ship will stop at additional ports in Europe and Asia before returning to her home base in India on August 16, 2025.