India hands over INS Kirpan to Vietnam in landmark

In a historic event, India decommissioned and handed over the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kirpan to the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) after 32 years of dutiful service. This marks the first time India has transferred a fully functional corvette to another country, reflecting a deepening of defence ties between India and Vietnam. India's continuous strengthening of defence partnership with Vietnam evidences their shared concerns over China's maritime power growth in the Indo-Pacific region. Alongside this, in 2022, India transferred 12 high-speed patrol guard boats to Vietnam, five of which were made in India. To improve Vietnam's defence technology capabilities, India backed the establishment of an Army Software Park in Vietnam with a $5 million donation. Furthermore, a mutual logistics support agreement has been signed by both countries, symbolising India’s commitment to promoting peace, regional security, and stability.

Important Points to remember

  1. INS Kirpan, a corvette, was handed over to the Vietnam People’s Navy by India.
  2. This marked the first time that India has transferred a fully operational corvette to a foreign country.
  3. In 2022, India provided Vietnam with 12 high-speed patrol guard boats, partially constructed in India.
  4. India assisted the establishment of an Army Software Park in Vietnam with a $5 million donation to enhance Vietnam's defence technology capabilities.
  5. A mutual logistics support agreement was signed between India and Vietnam, further solidifying their strategic partnership