India to deliver naval vessel to Seychelles after refit

As a goodwill gesture, India will tomorrow deliver a Fast Attack Craft to Seychelles after carrying out its refit in Vishakapatnam.

As a goodwill gesture, India will tomorrow deliver a Fast Attack Craft to Seychelles after carrying out its refit in Vishakapatnam.

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Navy sources said here today that the ship 'Topaz', which was originally an Indian Navy vessel, was given to Seychelles Navy by the government a few years back.

On a request from Syechelles, the Navy also carried out its refit over a three-month period and sent it on its way to the island nation escorted by an Offshore Patrol Vessel.

The Fast Attack Craft had been in Indian Navy service as INS Tarmugli until a few years ago. The craft is intended for patrol duties in coastal waters and around islands. It could also be used for policing in waters, anti-smuggling and fisheries protection in coastal waters, sources said.

The craft displace 260 tonnes, is 66 metres long and could attain speeds of 30 knots, sources added.