In a strategic move to enhance maritime cooperation, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tushil made a significant port call at Casablanca, on Friday. Commissioned in Russia on December 9, The INS Tushil is a multi-role, stealth-guided, missile frigate in the Indian Navy, commanded by Captain Peter Varghese, with a crew of 250 personnel, according to Indian News Network.
A stop on The INS Tushil’s maiden voyage in operational deployment, the visit is a key milestone in strengthening India’s maritime diplomacy in the Atlantic region, indicating India’s commitment to fostering strong bilateral ties with Morocco, which is strategically located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
The stop is intended to enhance collaboration between the Indian Navy and the Royal Moroccan Navy. Over the past year, India has had increased naval presence in Morocco, with three Indian Navy ships—The INS Tabar, The INS Tarkash, and The INS Sumedha—having visited Casablanca. These visits have significantly improved mutual trust and interoperability between the two nations.
During the two-day visit, the INS Tushil crew engaged in professional exchanges with members of the Royal Moroccan Navy, including cross-deck visits, functional-level discussions, and goodwill events. Senior officials and distinguished guests were hosted aboard the ship, deepening diplomatic ties.
Following the port call, The INS Tushil and the Royal Moroccan Navy will participate in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) at sea. Such exercises are designed to improve interoperability, foster shared best practices, and enhance collaborative capabilities between the two navies. This joint effort reflects the growing operational synergy between India and Morocco.
The INS Tushil’s deployment also includes similar collaborative exercises with other navies as it makes its way back to Karwar, India. The engagements are part of the Indian Navy’s broader mission to enhance maritime security and build international partnerships.
The INS Tushil’s stop in Morocco highlights the expanding strategic relationship between India and the kingdom, particularly in defense, trade, and renewable energy. Morocco’s geographical position as a bridge between Europe and Africa makes it a key partner for India in both regional and global contexts.
Bilateral trade between India and Morocco has grown significantly in the last few years, rising from USD 2 billion in 2018-19 to USD 3.6 billion in 2022-23. This increase is driven by Moroccan exports of phosphates and raw materials and Indian exports of textiles, pharmaceuticals, and machinery.
The two nations are also working together on renewable energy, with Morocco leading green energy efforts in Africa, while India advances its renewable technology sector.
The INS Tushil’s deployment underscores India’s growing maritime capabilities and diplomatic outreach. The ship’s engagement with the Royal Moroccan Navy reaffirms India’s commitment to global maritime partnerships, promoting cooperation and security across international waters.