India has sent a naval warship to Vietnam as a gift, the first time it's giving such a vessel to any country. It comes as the two sides have strengthened security ties in recent years.

The INS Kirpan left the eastern port city of Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. The domestically built warship is fitted with surface-to-surface missiles and is equipped for coastal security and anti-piracy operations, among other roles.

India's navy says the transfer of the ship reflects the country's "commitment to assist like-minded partners."

The gift was announced earlier this month, when the defense chiefs of the two countries met in New Delhi.

India considers Vietnam a key partner in its Act East Policy that seeks to bolster security relations with Southeast Asia. Both countries have expressed concerns about China's increasing aggression in the South China Sea and near India.

Last year, they agreed to expand the scale and scope of their defense cooperation and simplify measures for mutual logistical support.