Indian Navy Launches Joint Mission with 16 Nations Aboard INS Sunayna
The Indian Navy is preparing for a significant operational deployment, sending its offshore patrol vessel, the INS Sunayna, on a unique joint mission to the Southeast Asian region. This deployment will feature naval personnel from 16 friendly foreign countries embarking together, marking a substantial step in international maritime collaboration.
Training and Preparation Underway in Kochi
According to a naval officer, crew members from the various participating nations have already begun arriving at the naval base in Kochi. Here, they will undergo comprehensive training in naval operations and maritime security protocols. The officer detailed the process, stating, "The harbour phase of the mission has commenced, where the crew is receiving training and participating in familiarisation exercises on the vessel. This initial phase will be followed by a sea sortie to validate the training outcomes, after which the INS Sunayna will proceed to Mumbai for the official mission flag-off."
Continuation of IOS Sagar Initiative
This deployment marks the second consecutive year that the Navy has utilized the offshore patrol vessel as part of the IOS Sagar initiative. This program is a key component of India's ongoing cooperation with Indian Ocean Region (IOR) nations, aligned with the vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR). The initiative aims to unite navies and maritime agencies from the Southwest Indian Ocean Region on an Indian naval platform, providing valuable training opportunities and fostering enhanced collaboration in maritime security.
Expanded Participation Under IONS Leadership
The Indian Navy highlighted in a statement that this edition of the mission includes participation from 16 nations that are members of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). This expansion follows the Indian Navy assuming the chairmanship of IONS in February 2026, reflecting its growing leadership role in regional maritime affairs. Last year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the INS Sunayna from Karwar with 44 naval personnel from nine friendly foreign nations, demonstrating the initiative's evolution and increased international engagement.
This joint mission underscores India's commitment to strengthening maritime security ties and promoting cooperative efforts in the strategically important Southeast Asian and Indian Ocean regions.
