INS Kirpan Decommissioned and Handed Over to Vietnam People’s Navy in Symbolic Ceremony

Cam Ranh, Vietnam, July 22, 2023: Indian Naval Ship Kirpan, after 32 years of illustrious service to the nation, has been decommissioned from the Indian Navy and officially handed over to the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) in a momentous ceremony at Cam Ranh, Vietnam. The event was graced by Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff, Indian Navy, and Rear Admiral Pham Manh Hung, Deputy Commander-in-Chief and Chief of Staff, VPN.

INS Kirpan, a vital asset of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet since its commissioning in 1991, has played a significant role in numerous operations during its 32 years of service. The vessel, measuring 90 meters in length and 10.45 meters in width, with a maximum displacement of 1450 tons, has been manned by a dedicated crew of approximately 12 officers and 100 sailors. Today, with a complete weapon complement, INS Kirpan has been handed over to the Vietnam People’s Navy.

Admiral R Hari Kumar expressed his deep pride and honor to be a part of the historic ceremony, marking the transfer of one of the finest and longest-serving warships of the Indian Navy to the esteemed Vietnam People’s Navy. He extended a warm welcome to all distinguished guests present at the event and emphasized the significance of the occasion, aligning with India’s G20 vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – One Earth, One Family, One Future.

The symbolic transfer of INS Kirpan exemplifies the Indian Navy’s status as the “Preferred Security Partner” in the Indian Ocean Region and is expected to further bolster the already strong bilateral relations between the two navies. The event signifies the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between India and Vietnam, making it the first instance of India offering a fully-operational Corvette to any Friendly Foreign Country. The ceremony marks a significant milestone in the maritime cooperation and mutual trust between the two nations.