The Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS), comprising INS Tir, INS Sujata and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi, departed Malé, Maldives, on 24 Oct 2026, on completion of a three-day port call as part of the Squadron’s Long Range Training Deployment. The port call culminated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Maldives Coast Guard Ship Imaduddin, enhancing operational coordination and interoperability between the two maritime forces.

The programme featured professional engagements, training interactions with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), and community outreach activities. The Director of Maritime Operations and Training, MNDF, interacted with sea trainees of 1TS, while an MNDF delegation visited the Squadron to gain insights into the Indian Navy’s operational and training roles. Demonstrating a shared commitment to humanitarian outreach, a blood donation camp was organized, with over 40 personnel participating.

A deck reception was co-hosted by the High Commission of India and the Senior Officer, 1TS. The reception was attended by HE Ali Shareef, Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy; the National Security Advisor; the Vice Chief of Defence Force, MNDF; and other dignitaries.

The port call reaffirmed the enduring maritime partnership between India and the Maldives and underscored the Indian Navy’s commitment to regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, in line with the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).