Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish have concluded their participation in the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) 2026, held in the Philippines under the theme ‘Anchored in Trust, United at Sea’.
The exercise provided participating maritime forces with opportunities for professional interaction, operational coordination and maritime training through dedicated Harbour and Sea Phases.
The Opening Ceremony was followed by the Harbour Phase, which featured a range of engagements, including Key Leaders’ Engagements, sporting events, Yoga sessions, community interaction and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges.
A Table-Top Exercise, Operational Synchronisation and Pre-Sail Brief were also conducted to facilitate coordination and prepare participating forces for the Sea Phase.
During the Sea Phase, INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish took part in coordinated maritime exercises covering Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), Visit-Board-Search-Seizure (VBSS) and Underway Replenishment drills.
The participating forces also conducted a series of helicopter operations, including cross-deck landings, vertical replenishment and Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) drills.
These activities enhanced coordination and interoperability among the participating maritime forces and provided practical experience in conducting joint operations at sea.
The Harbour and Sea Phases of AIME 2026 further reinforced mutual trust and strengthened interoperability, contributing to closer maritime partnerships among India and ASEAN countries.
The participation of INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to sustained engagement with partner maritime forces, in line with India’s Act East Policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.