The Punjaub was a notable sail and paddle steamer frigate built in Bombay Dockyard by Cursetjee Rustomjee, launched on 21 April 1854. Designed by Oliver Laing, her lines are believed to derive from an old French frigate, reflecting a reputation for strength and speed. Constructed entirely of Malabar Teak, she measured slightly longer overall than her sister ship, Assaye. Her design featured two auxiliary engines driving paddle wheels on either side, allowing her to move against the wind, although this configuration reduced her sailing speed when under sail. The fitting out process was delayed due to the need for engines from Britain, and her initial armament included steam power combined with sail. In service with the Indian Navy, Punjaub played a prominent role during the Anglo-Persian War, notably transporting troops to the Crimea, where she proved herself as a fast vessel capable of reducing sail and conserving coal. Under her first commander, John W. Young, she transported the 10th Hussars to the siege of Sebastopol, demonstrating notable speed and efficiency, earning commendations for her and her crew's performance. She also participated in the landings and bombardments associated with the war, including the attack on Bushire, where she was involved in naval bombardments and the transport of prisoners. During the Indian Revolt of 1857, Punjaub was active in troop movements and ground operations, including the capture of the last Nawab of Awadh and efforts to protect Dhaka. Her service record highlights her versatility as both a warship and transport vessel. By 1862, the Indian Navy decided to replace her, and she was sent to England, where she was sold in 1863 to Jock Willis, a shipping magnate. She was converted into a clipper ship, renamed The Tweed, with her engines removed and a new figurehead of Tam O'Shanter added. Renowned for her speed, The Tweed was employed by Willis in the 1860s and 1870s, notably for laying telegraph cables in the Persian Gulf and making record-breaking passages between London and the colonies. Her career reflects her importance as a versatile vessel that transitioned from a naval frigate to a fast merchant clipper, contributing significantly to maritime commerce and technology of her era.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.