The Indian Navy has once again demonstrated its commitment to regional stability and maritime safety by participating in a significant multilateral exercise in the Indo-Pacific region. Indian Navy ships INS Sahyadri and the missile corvette INS Kulish took part in the ADMM-Plus Experts Working Group (EWG) on Maritime Security Joint Cooperation Activity. This high-profile event was held at Subic Bay in the Philippines, marking a crucial step in strengthening the bonds of maritime security cooperation between India and other prominent nations in the Indo-Pacific corridor. The activity, which saw the convergence of multiple naval powers, concluded on September 25.
Overview of the Joint Cooperation Activity
The joint cooperation activity commenced on September 21, setting the stage for several days of intense professional interaction and operational drills. The event was hosted by the Philippine Navy, with Japan serving as the co-chair for this edition of the Experts Working Group. The primary objective of this gathering was to foster a collaborative environment where navies could share best practices, enhance mutual understanding, and build a framework for collective response to maritime challenges. The participation of INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish underscores India's proactive role in maintaining a rules-based maritime order in the region.
The Harbor Phase: Building Synergy and Leadership
During the harbor phase of the exercise, experts and naval personnel engaged in a series of comprehensive discussions. These sessions focused on critical issues such as maritime peace and security, the development of synergy between different naval forces, and the role of senior naval leadership in navigating complex maritime environments. Another significant area of focus was maritime environmental protection, reflecting the growing concern for the ecological health of the oceans. Beyond professional discussions, the harbor phase also included sports competitions, the celebration of international days, and various cultural programs. these activities were designed to build camaraderie and personal connections between the personnel of the participating navies, which is essential for effective cooperation during real-world operations.
Operational Synchronization and Community Engagement
On September 22, the Indian Navy personnel participated in operational synchronization sessions and tabletop exercises. These exercises were vital for aligning the tactical procedures and communication protocols of the different navies, while following these sessions, a pre-sail conference was conducted to finalize the plans for the upcoming sea phase. In addition to the military drills, the Indian Navy also demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility. Personnel participated in a community engagement program at the Shepherds of the Hill Center in Zambales, further strengthening the ties between the visiting forces and the local community in the Philippines.
The Sea Phase: Multilateral Operations at Sea
The sea phase of the activity was the most dynamic part of the exercise, involving the navies of six nations: India, the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the United States of America. This phase was characterized by a wide range of complex maritime operations conducted in a collaborative environment. The participating forces practiced search and rescue operations, which are critical for saving lives during maritime disasters. They also conducted hydrographic surveys to improve the accuracy of maritime charts and ensure safe navigation. Other key exercises included casualty and medical evacuation drills, deck landing qualifications for naval aircraft, and providing assistance to stranded vessels. These drills were essential for testing the readiness and coordination of the participating navies in responding to various maritime emergencies.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Strategic Vision
The primary goal of these exercises was to improve synergy and coordination among the different navies during emergency situations at sea. By working together on these complex tasks, the participating nations were able to strengthen their operational coordination and interoperability. This participation by the Indian Navy is a significant step toward strengthening regional maritime security cooperation. It aligns perfectly with India's Act East Policy and the broader vision of MAHASAGAR, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. Through such engagements, India continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring a secure, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.