INS Kalpeni, a Fast Attack Craft of the Indian Navy, has reached Gan in Addu Atoll, marking another milestone in the growing maritime cooperation between India and the Maldives. The High Commission of India in the Maldives shared the update on X, stating that the ship’s visit reflects the strong and long-standing friendship as well as the broad defence partnership between the two nations.

This engagement aligns with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. Earlier, INS Sunayna had arrived in Malé on April 6 as part of the IOS SAGAR initiative, highlighting India’s strategic focus on the Indian Ocean Region and its commitment to strengthening ties with neighbouring countries. The Saryu-class Offshore Patrol Vessel was crewed by personnel from 16 friendly foreign countries and was welcomed with full naval honours by the Maldives National Defence Force.

Before docking, INS Sunayna and MNDF Coast Guard units conducted joint exercises at sea, including manoeuvres, advanced signalling, small arms training, and drills related to damage control and firefighting. The visit, part of a larger deployment, aims to boost cooperation and coordination through activities such as expert exchanges to enhance maritime awareness.

Described as the first international stop in a 50-day mission, the visit reinforces India’s role as a key security partner in the region. It also highlights India’s position as a reliable first responder and a trusted ally in supporting the Maldives’ security and development. The IOS SAGAR mission, which began its second edition in March, includes participation from 16 Indian Ocean Naval Symposium nations. With international crew members onboard, the initiative reflects India’s approach of fostering unity, cooperation, and peace in the region. It is designed to promote joint training, operational coordination, and stronger maritime partnerships among participating countries.

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