Russia has begun sea trials of the Indian Navy’s Teg, the first of three Talwar Class frigates, in the Baltic Sea as part of the process of the vessel’s delivery.

According to Press Trust of India, the new frigates will be equipped with BrahMos cruise missiles capable of destroying enemy ships and land targets.

The Indian Navy is expected to receive the vessel in early 2012, followed by the Tarkash in the same year and the Trikand ship in 2013.

In 2006, the navy ordered three frigates from Russia as part of a $1.5bn deal.