The Indian Navy's oldest guided-missile frigate, the indispensable INS Gomati is set to be decommissioned on May 28 after 34 years of glorious service to the nation. The unbeatable INS Gomati is sailing to find a new base in Lucknow. Notably, the Indian Navy's INS Gomati was the third of the indigenously built ‘Godavari’ class guided missile frigate and was originally commissioned into the Indian Navy on April 16, 1988.

After the warship is decommissioned, some of its parts will be taken to Lucknow, where the authorities plans to set up a one-of-a-kind open air museum on the banks of the River Gomti which flows through the length and breadth of the city.

According to reports, some parts of the ship would be put on display on pivotal places like the quintessential Chhattar Manzil and the Gomti Riverfront, shining through as a tearful reminder of the valour of the Indian Navy.

To be chosen as the final base of INS Gomati is indeed a matter of pride for Lucknow. Reportedly, the warship was the first vessel of the Indian Navy to be equipped with digital electronics in the combat data systems, and a blend of Indian, Russian and Western weapons systems. Notably, the other two Godavari frigates, namely Godavari and Ganga were decommissioned back in 2015 and 2018, respectively.

-With inputs from IANS