The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar, carrying a multinational crew from 16 friendly foreign countries (FFC), arrived at Colombo Harbour on May 15 as part of its ongoing operational deployment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The Indian Navy vessel, which is an operational engagement initiative, is designed to build collaborative maritime security and trust among nations in the IOR. It allows naval personnel from various partner countries to train, sail, and operate together onboard an Indian Naval Ship like INS Sunayna.
Strengthening Maritime Partnership
The ship's entry into Sri Lankan waters underscored the strong maritime partnership and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy. On arrival, IOS Sagar was escorted into harbour by a Sri Lanka Navy ship. The three-day port call aims to further strengthen maritime cooperation and reinforce the collaborative security architecture in the region.
Official Engagements and Cultural Exchanges
During the visit, the commanding officer of IOS Sagar is scheduled to call on senior leadership of the Sri Lanka Navy, including the commander of the Western Naval Area and the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Fleet. The commanding officer will also meet the High Commissioner of India in Colombo. Additionally, the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy is scheduled to visit the ship and interact with the multinational crew embarked onboard.
As part of professional and cultural engagements, the multinational crew of IOS Sagar will participate in media interactions highlighting the objectives of the IOS SAGAR 2026 deployment. Friendly sports fixtures are also planned between personnel of the Indian Navy and Sri Lanka Navy to foster camaraderie.
Open to Visitors and Community Outreach
The ship will be open to visitors during its stay in harbour, with personnel from the Sri Lanka Navy, schoolchildren, and members of the Indian diaspora in Colombo expected to visit. Apart from official engagements, the crew of IOS Sagar will undertake cultural visits and professional tours to Colombo Port, Galle, Kandy, and Pinnawala to promote deeper people-to-people ties and mutual understanding.
Departure and Passage Exercise
IOS Sagar is scheduled to depart Colombo on May 18, with a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) planned with the Sri Lanka Navy. The visit of IOS SAGAR to Colombo stands as a strong reflection of India's Neighbourhood First policy and its continued commitment towards ensuring peace, stability, and collective maritime security in the IOR.
