“Today’s handing-over ceremony symbolises the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between India and Vietnam. What makes this occasion even more significant is the fact that this is the first-ever occasion that India is offering a fully-operational Corvette to any Friendly Foreign Country” – Adm R Hari Kumar, CNS.
On completing 32 years of illustrious service to nation, INS Kirpan has been decommissioned from IndianNavy and Handed Over to Vietnam People’s Navy VPN on 22 Jul 2023 at Cam Ranh, Vietnam. The decommissioning and handing over Ceremony of INS Kirpan to VPN was presided over by Adm R Hari Kumar, CNS, Indian Navy and RAdm Pham Manh Hung, Deputy CINC and Chief of Staff, VPN. INS Kirpan, since commissioning in 1991, has been an integral part of Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet and has participated in many operations over last 32 years. Manned by about 12 officers and 100 sailors, ship is 90 meters long and 10.45 meters in width with a maximum displacement of 1450 tons. The ship has been handed over today to Vietnam People’s Navy with a complete weapon complement. Speaking on the occasion Adm R Hari Kumar stated that “It is a matter of great honour for me to be a part of handing over ceremony of one of the finest and longest-serving warships of Indian Navy – Kirpan, to esteemed Vietnam People’s Navy. On behalf of Indian Navy, it is my privilege to extend a warm welcome to all distinguished guests present here. The transfer of Kirpan to Vietnam People’s Navy resonates with India’s G20 vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future". The transfer of INS Kirpan from Indian Navy to Vietnam People’s Navy symbolises status of Indian Navy of being ‘Preferred Security partner’ in IOR and would definitely be a catalyst for enhancing existing bilateral relations between two navies.
