India’s Warships Strengthen Maritime Partnerships in the Indo-Pacific

INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish conclude ADMM-Plus maritime activity in the Philippines, reinforcing cooperation, interoperability and regional preparedness

India has reinforced its commitment to maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific with the successful participation of INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish in the 23rd ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security Joint Cooperation Activity.

The Indian Navy’s frontline stealth frigate INS Sahyadri and missile corvette INS Kulish joined naval forces from participating countries at Subic Bay, in an engagement designed to strengthen practical cooperation and improve coordination during maritime operations.

Hosted by the Philippine Navy and co-chaired by Japan, the activity brought together defence and naval personnel for professional exchanges as well as operational exercises. The programme reflected the growing importance of maritime cooperation in addressing challenges that transcend national boundaries.

During the harbour phase, participants exchanged views on issues including maritime security, peace and stability, maritime interaction guidelines, leadership development and protection of the marine environment. These engagements provided an opportunity for naval personnel to share experiences and develop stronger professional relationships.

The sea phase moved the focus from dialogue to practical coordination. Participating forces conducted activities involving search and rescue, hydrographic surveys, medical evacuation, casualty evacuation, deck-landing operations and assistance to vessels in distress. Such exercises help develop common procedures and enhance interoperability when different naval forces operate together.

India’s participation also carried a broader diplomatic dimension. The deployment supports New Delhi’s Act East Policy and its MAHASAGAR vision, which places emphasis on mutual growth, security and cooperation across the maritime region.

The Subic Bay engagement further strengthened India’s maritime relationship with the Philippines, particularly following the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2025.

For the Indo-Pacific, where maritime connectivity and security are closely linked to economic prosperity, such multilateral naval activities provide an important platform for building trust and operational confidence.

The participation of INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish demonstrates India’s continuing willingness to work with regional partners through practical cooperation—helping build a maritime environment where communication, preparedness and collective response remain central to regional stability.