Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri And Kulish Conclude Participation In AIME 2026

Key Highlights:

• INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish concluded their participation in the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME 2026).
• The exercise was conducted in the Philippines under the theme ‘Anchored in Trust, United at Sea’.
• It comprised both Harbour and Sea Phases, focusing on professional interaction and operational coordination.
• Sea Phase activities included Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Visit-Board-Search-Seizure (VBSS) drills.
• India’s participation reaffirmed its commitment to the Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision.

Detailed Insights:

• The Harbour Phase involved Key Leaders’ Engagements, sporting events, Yoga, and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges.
• A Table-Top Exercise and Pre-Sail Brief facilitated coordination and preparation for the subsequent Sea Phase.
• Sea Phase drills enhanced interoperability through coordinated maritime exercises and helicopter operations like cross-deck landings.
• These activities reinforced trust and contributed to effective maritime partnerships among participating forces.
• The exercise underscores the Indian Navy’s continued engagement with partner maritime forces in the region.

Key Concepts Involved:

• ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME): A joint naval exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and cooperation between ASEAN member states and India.
• Act East Policy: India's foreign policy initiative to strengthen economic, strategic, and cultural relations with the Asia-Pacific region.
• MAHASAGAR: A vision for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth for All in the Region, emphasizing maritime cooperation.