INS Tamal, the eighth ship of the Talwar-class stealth frigates, and INS Surat, the latest indigenously constructed guided-missile destroyer of the Indian Navy, arrived at Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on 27 and 28 Aug 2025, respectively.

During the port call, the crew will engage with the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) and Border Guards through sports fixtures, familiarisation with naval facilities and discussions towards fostering Indo-Saudi Arabian relations. The Indian side will host a cultural exchange for senior dignitaries of the RSNF, Border Guards, diplomats, prominent members of the diaspora and local government officials.

The visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening defence collaboration and friendly ties with Saudi Arabia. It will also provide an opportunity for both navies to share Best Practices and explore avenues for further engagement.

Aligned with the 7th India–Saudi Arabia Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation (JCDC), discussions also covered training, maritime cooperation, industrial collaboration, and capacity building. This visit coincides with India’s efforts to expand maritime security partnerships and showcase its growing defense manufacturing capabilities.