In a poignant ceremony at Port Blair on January 12, 2024, the Indian Navy bade farewell to three of its stalwart ships – INS Cheetah, INS Guldar, and INS Kumbhir – after four decades of glorious service to the nation. The decommissioning marked the end of an era for these vessels, which had become synonymous with India’s maritime security and humanitarian efforts in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Built in Poland in the 1980s, Cheetah, Guldar, and Kumbhir were commissioned into the Indian Navy with great fanfare. They served initially in mainland India before finding their permanent home in the Andaman and Nicobar Command. Over the years, these ships traversed a staggering 17 lakh nautical miles, spending over 12,300 days at sea. They served as the backbone of amphibious operations in the region, conducting over 1300 beaching operations to land troops ashore and secure the islands.
The ships’ legacy extends far beyond just military operations. They played a crucial role in numerous maritime security missions and humanitarian assistance efforts. Notably, they participated in Operation Aman during the IPKF operations in Sri Lanka and Operation Tasha, a joint venture with the Indian Coast Guard to curb smuggling and illegal immigration. They also provided critical relief in the aftermath of the 1997 cyclone in Sri Lanka and the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.
The decommissioning of Cheetah, Guldar, and Kumbhir marks a significant chapter in the Indian Navy’s history. These ships were not just vessels; they were symbols of the Navy’s dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime frontiers. Their decommissioning was a moment of reflection, celebrating their achievements while acknowledging the passage of time.
The ceremony at Port Blair was attended by dignitaries, including Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM, VM, Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command, and Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, AVSM, VSM, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff. The event was also unique as it witnessed the simultaneous decommissioning of three ships of the same class – a testament to their shared journey and unwavering service.
While Cheetah, Guldar, and Kumbhir may no longer sail the seas, their legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who served on them and the countless lives they touched during their illustrious careers. They have earned their place among the Indian Navy’s most revered vessels, leaving behind a legacy of service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the nation.