In a key milestone in defence cooperation between India and Greece, the maiden edition of the bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the Hellenic Navy took place from September 13 to 18 in the Mediterranean Sea. This significant event marks a strengthening of ties and collaboration between the two naval forces.
The exercise was conducted in two phases. The harbour phase ran from September 13 to 17 at the Salamis Naval Base, followed by the sea phase on September 17 and 18. Representing the Indian Navy was the guided missile stealth frigate INS Trikand.
During the harbour phase, personnel from both countries engaged in activities designed to foster mutual understanding and operational synergy. These included cross-deck visits, professional interactions between crew members, and a pre-sail conference held aboard HS Themistokles, an Elli-class frigate of the Hellenic Navy.
A cultural exchange event aboard INS Trikand was attended by Rudrendra Tandon, India’s Ambassador to Greece, and Commodore Spyridon Mantis, Commander of Salamis Naval Base, along with senior Hellenic Navy officers and their families. The event showcased India’s rich traditions and highlighted the strengthened ties between the two maritime forces.
In addition to professional exchanges, the Indian crew also visited the Sacred Rock of Acropolis during their stay, further deepening cultural connections.
The sea phase featured complex manoeuvres and tactical exercises. These included night VBSS (Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure) operations, replenishment-at-sea procedures, joint anti-submarine warfare drills, coordinated gun firing, and cross-deck helicopter operations. Such activities enhanced interoperability and validated the professional capabilities of both navies in challenging maritime scenarios.
Officials noted that the successful conclusion of the exercise reflects the growing convergence of India and Greece on maritime security and cooperative engagement. Both nations share common interests in ensuring safety, stability, and freedom of navigation in the global maritime commons.
Beyond operational training, the exercise provided an opportunity for sharing best practices, developing operational interoperability, and strengthening professional rapport between the two navies.
Following the conclusion of the exercise, INS Trikand continued her deployment in the Mediterranean Sea, further supporting India’s maritime presence in the region.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/indian-navy-participates-in-maiden-bilateral-maritime-exercise-with-greece-in-the-mediterranean-23594972
