India-US naval EOD exercise concludes in Kochi after intensive joint training

New Delhi, Aug 17. The eighth edition of the India-US Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Exercise 2026 concluded at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi on August 14, strengthening operational cooperation and interoperability between the two navies in specialised maritime operations.

The bilateral exercise featured intensive professional interactions, exchanges of operational best practices and demonstrations by personnel from the Indian and US navies, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on August 17. The engagement focused on enhancing the capabilities of EOD and diving teams to respond to a range of complex underwater and maritime threats.

As part of the exercise, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) covered several aspects of EOD operations, including threats posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs), render-safe procedures and mine neutralisation. The participating teams also shared expertise on the use of unmanned underwater systems in specialised operations.

The cross-training phase involved practical exercises covering various diving disciplines. These included locating and salvaging wrecks, operating specialised diving equipment and conducting slithering operations.

The joint training provided personnel from both navies with an opportunity to exchange operational experience and refine their skills while developing a better understanding of each other’s procedures and capabilities.

The successful conclusion of the exercise is expected to further strengthen interoperability between the Indian and US navies and enhance their ability to work together in specialised maritime operations, particularly those involving underwater threats and explosive ordnance.