Indian Navy Conducts Joint Exercises in South Korea and Sri Lanka

The Indian Navy executed two separate bilateral maritime exercises in late October 2026 to strengthen strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions. In South Korea, the Indian Naval ship INS Sahyadri joined the Republic of Korea Navy's guided-missile destroyer ROKS Munmu The Great for drills off the coast of Busan. The engagement included a harbor phase from October 26 to 29 and a sea phase focused on search and rescue operations and cross-deck helicopter landings.

Simultaneously, the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron—consisting of INS Tir, INS Sujata, and ICGS Sarathi—conducted joint exercises with the Sri Lanka Navy off the west coast of Sri Lanka. These drills, which also ran from October 26 to 29, focused on communication, navigation, and operational interoperability. The Sri Lankan contingent included the SLNS Nandimithra and fast attack craft P 492.

Beyond tactical drills, both engagements featured professional exchanges and sporting events. The Sri Lankan visit included a joint beach clean-up and a combined band performance. Further cooperation continued as the SLNS Gajabahu sailed for India to participate in the first BIMSTEC maritime security exercise, while a Sri Lankan Army artillery delegation traveled to India for training. The Ministry of Defence of India stated that these visits reflect a shared commitment to peace, stability, and security in the region.