Indian Navy hosts 26-nation maritime security training engagement in Kochi

New Delhi, July 21. A four-day multinational maritime security training engagement, Operation Southern Readiness 26-2, began at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi on July 20, bringing together 254 participants from 26 countries to strengthen cooperation and operational preparedness in the maritime domain.

Hosted by the Southern Naval Command under the aegis of the Indian Navy-led Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154), the engagement is being conducted in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). The programme is supported by 74 facilitators, four international organisations and subject matter experts.

This is the first time that Operation Southern Readiness is being held in India and marks a significant step in expanding cooperation between the Indian Navy and the CMF.

CTF 154, the CMF’s dedicated training task force, is currently commanded by the Indian Navy and focuses on enhancing the capacity, interoperability and professional readiness of CMF partner nations through multinational maritime training programmes.

The opening ceremony featured remarks by Commodore Milind M Mokashi, Commander of CTF 154, an inaugural address by Commodore Dan Thomas, Deputy Commander of the Combined Maritime Forces, and a keynote address by Rear Admiral Deepak Singhal, Chief Staff Officer (Training), Headquarters Southern Naval Command. The speakers highlighted the importance of professional training, knowledge sharing and multinational cooperation in tackling emerging maritime security challenges.

The first day’s programme, centred on ship management and specialised training, included professional interactions with subject matter experts and practical training. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) conducted a session on maritime security threats in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean.

Participants also received hands-on training in ship handling, navigation, astronomical navigation, maritime distress communication systems, damage control and firefighting using the Indian Navy’s advanced simulators and training facilities.

The programme over the next three days will feature professional sessions, simulator-based training and practical activities covering various aspects of contemporary maritime security.

The engagement is aimed at enhancing regional capacity building, interoperability and collective maritime security while facilitating professional exchanges and strengthening ties among participating countries. The hosting of Operation Southern Readiness by the Southern Naval Command further reinforces the Indian Navy’s role as a preferred security and training partner in the region.