Context
The Indian Navy’s INS Kulish arrived at Ream Naval Base, Cambodia, as part of the Eastern Fleet’s operational deployment. The visit strengthens maritime cooperation between India and Cambodia and supports wider naval engagement in Southeast Asia.
About INS Kulish
- INS Kulish is a Kora-class guided-missile corvette of the Indian Navy. The Sanskrit term Kulish means “thunderbolt.”
- It was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) between 1995 and 2001 and commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2001.
- The vessel has a displacement of about 1,500 tonnes and can attain a maximum speed of 25 knots using twin diesel engines.
- It has an operational range of about 2,500 nautical miles without replenishment and can operate a Chetak helicopter.
- Its principal anti-ship weapon is the Russian-origin Kh-35 anti-ship cruise missile. It also carries surface-to-surface missiles, long-range guns and surface-to-air missiles.
- Its sensors and electronic systems support maritime surveillance and combat operations.
FAQs
- What is a corvette?
A corvette is a relatively small and fast warship used for surveillance, maritime security and combat operations. - What is an anti-ship cruise missile?
It is a guided missile designed to detect and engage naval targets, particularly enemy warships. - What is the Eastern Fleet?
The Eastern Fleet is an operational formation of the Indian Navy responsible for maritime operations in the eastern maritime theatre. - Where is Ream Naval Base located?
Ream Naval Base is located in Cambodia on the Gulf of Thailand coast. - What is the Act East Policy?
It is India’s policy of deepening economic, diplomatic, cultural and strategic engagement with Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific. - What does MAHASAGAR stand for?
MAHASAGAR stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions, reflecting India’s broader vision for maritime cooperation.
