INS Tamal, the latest stealth frigate of the Indian Navy, called at Naples, Italy, from 13-16 Aug 2025 during her return passage to India. The visit underscored the strong bilateral relations between the two nations, which were formally elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2023.
INS Tamal participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with ITS Trieste, the recently commissioned Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) of the Italian Navy, prior entering harbour at Naples. Joint operations during the PASSEX included communication exercises, manoeuvres and flying operations and exchange of sea riders, finally culminating in a steam past.
During the port call at Naples, the ship engaged in a range of activities focused on furthering defence cooperation and collaboration between India and Italy. Bilateral discussions with senior military and local officials, as well as professional exchanges, were the highlights of the visit.
The Commanding Officer called on Vice Admiral Pierpaolo Budri, Chief of Staff of the Logistics Command of the Italian Navy and Ms Laura Lieto, Deputy Mayor of Naples. Both sides discussed various initiatives under the India-Italy Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029.
INS Tamal and the Embassy of India in Rome, hosted a cultural program onboard for officials from the local Government, the Italian Navy, and the Diplomatic Corps based at Rome, and representatives of UN agencies based in Italy and Italian defence industry leaders.
The Ambassador of India to the Republic of Italy, H. E Mrs Vani Rao, also interacted with the ship’s crew and senior officers from the Italian Navy onboard INS Tamal. A ceremonial parade was conducted onboard on 15 Aug 2025 on the occasion of 79th Independence Day of India.
The ship’s crew also participated in the Independence Day celebrations at the Embassy of India in Rome. The port call by INS Tamal reflects the importance India attaches to its relations with Italy and the endeavour to strengthen the growing defence cooperation between the two nations.
It has also provided an opportunity for both navies to share best practices and pursue further opportunities for joint engagement. Post her departure from Naples on 16 Aug 2025, the ship will visit other European and Asian ports enroute to her home base in India, furthering maritime diplomacy and strengthening bilateral ties across the spectrum.