Indian Navy training squadron makes port call at Mombasa to boost maritime ties
New Delhi, September 26. Ships of the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) – INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi – arrived in Mombasa, Kenya, on September 25 as part of their ongoing long-range training deployment in the southwest Indian Ocean Region.
The squadron was accorded a ceremonial welcome by the Kenya Navy, joined by India’s Defence Advisor and the Acting High Commissioner of India, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on September 26. The deployment has already included visits to Seychelles, Mauritius, La Réunion and Mozambique.
During the port call, personnel from the two navies will take part in joint training activities, a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX), and a Passage Exercise (PASSEX). The programme also features a joint yoga session, cultural exchanges including a combined performance by the Indian and Kenya Navy Bands, and community outreach activities in Mombasa.
The visit underlines New Delhi’s commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. It also reinforces the spirit of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) which seeks to deepen regional collaboration in security and development.
