Newsroom
A state-of-the-art Indian warship is set to dock in Limassol this Sunday, September 21st, demonstrating the growing defense and maritime partnership between India and Cyprus.
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Trikand, a Talwar-class guided missile frigate, will make a port call in Limassol from September 21 to 24. The visit comes after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic trip to Cyprus in June, which resulted in a joint declaration outlining plans for deeper defense cooperation, joint maritime training, and hosting Indian naval vessels at Cypriot ports.
During its stay, Trikand will host a series of professional and diplomatic events. These include a courtesy call on Cyprus Navy Commander Commodore Minas Solomonides, a reception on board led by India’s High Commissioner to Cyprus, Manish, and Captain Sachin Kulkarni of the Trikand, and a yoga event for visitors. The public will have the chance to tour the ship on September 23, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On the final day, September 24, the vessel will conduct a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) with the Cyprus Navy, a naval drill designed to strengthen operational coordination.
“India and Cyprus share a commitment to democratic values, maritime security, and economic growth,” said High Commissioner Manish. “The arrival of INS Trikand, following Prime Minister Modi’s visit and the joint declaration, symbolizes our enduring friendship and the exciting prospects for bilateral defense ties. We look forward to welcoming Captain Kulkarni and his crew, who embody the professionalism and excellence of the Indian Navy.”
Commissioned in 2013, INS Trikand is a 4,035-ton warship measuring nearly 125 meters long, with a crew of 180, including 18 officers. The frigate is armed with supersonic BrahMos cruise missiles, stealth technologies, and a Kamov Ka-31 helicopter, capable of anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine missions. Its service record includes humanitarian missions in the Indian Ocean and participation in multinational exercises such as Naseem Al Bahr with Oman and Exercise Bright Star 2025 in Egypt.
The visit is expected to further solidify India-Cyprus defense collaboration and provide local residents a rare glimpse of one of India’s most advanced warships.
