Indian Navy Launches Major Maritime Initiatives
The Indian Navy is set to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) with two significant initiatives: IOS Sagar and AIKEYME. These programs align with the Government of India’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). The initiatives aim to strengthen partnerships with IOR nations and bolster India’s role as a preferred security partner and first responder in maritime matters.
IOS Sagar: Strengthening Regional Cooperation
The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative marks a new chapter in India’s maritime collaboration with IOR countries. As part of this initiative, the Indian Naval ship INS Sunayna will be deployed to the Southwest IOR in April 2025. This mission will involve a combined crew from India and nine friendly foreign countries, including Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.
INS Sunayna is scheduled to conduct port calls at key locations such as Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria, and Male. The ship’s deployment will last over a month, during which it will engage in joint surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, and Seychelles. Additionally, personnel from the friendly foreign countries will participate in a two-week training program at various naval professional schools in Kochi, which will include hands-on training at sea. This collaboration aims to enhance operational readiness and foster deeper ties among the participating nations.
AIKEYME: A Multilateral Maritime Engagement
In a bid to address maritime security threats, India and African nations are launching a large-scale multilateral maritime exercise known as AIKEYME, which translates to “Unity” in Sanskrit. This initiative emphasizes the importance of cooperation in combating piracy, trafficking, and unregulated fishing through enhanced information sharing and surveillance.
The inaugural edition of AIKEYME will be co-hosted by the Indian Navy and the Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force (TPDF) in mid-April 2025, off the coast of Dar-es-Salaam. The exercise will last six days and will see participation from several African nations, including Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa, alongside the co-hosts.
The exercise will feature a Harbour Phase that includes tabletop and command post exercises focused on piracy and information sharing. Participants will also receive training in seamanship and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations. The Sea Phase will encompass various activities, including seamanship evolutions, search and rescue operations, VBSS drills, small arms firing, and helicopter operations. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance interoperability among the navies and maritime agencies involved.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Maritime Security
As the Indian Navy embarks on these initiatives, it reinforces its commitment to maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. The launch of IOS Sagar and AIKEYME reflects India’s strategic vision to foster collaboration and build capacity among IOR nations. By enhancing partnerships and operational capabilities, India aims to position itself as a key player in ensuring stability and security in the region.
With these developments, the Indian Navy is not only strengthening its own capabilities but also contributing to a collective effort to address maritime challenges that affect all nations in the Indian Ocean. The future of maritime security in the region looks promising as these initiatives take shape.
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