Indian Navy chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan, on a visit to Seychelles, will hand over the second Indian Fast Attack Craft (FAC) to the Government of Seychelles on Friday.
The first craft, >SCG Topaz (formerly INS Tarmugli) was gifted to the Seychelles by the Government of India in 2005 and was extensively utilized in anti-piracy patrols and has captured several pirates.
The handing over of the second attack craft, >INS Taras a, will further bolster the strength of the Seychelles Coast Guard towards meeting her maritime security needs. INS Tarasa has been recently refitted at Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
In addition, the Indian Navy would also position a team for maintenance and support to assist the Seychelles Coast Guard.
India has provided a comprehensive maritime security solution including provisioning of military hardware, training, consultancy as well as hydrographic assistance to Seychelles.
The Chief of the Naval Staff during his visit to Seychelles is also scheduled to call on the President, Chief of Defence Forces and other civil and military officials.
Three Indian warships are currently in Seychelles to reinforce cooperation in maritime security between the two countries.
From The Hindu archives:
>Navy to shift patrol craft to Seychelles
