MANAMA, Bahrain, February 16 (ANI): The Indian Navy on Monday said the visit of Indian Naval Ship Surat to Bahrain reaffirmed India’s commitment to regional maritime security and strengthened operational cooperation with multinational forces.
In a post on X, the Indian Navy spokesperson said the ship’s engagements during the visit enhanced coordination and information-sharing.
“Indian Naval Ship Surat’s visit to Bahrain underscored India’s commitment to regional maritime security. Productive engagements with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) enhanced operational synergy, strengthened information-sharing frameworks, and reaffirmed our collective resolve to safeguard global sea lanes,” the Navy said.
During the visit, INS Surat interacted with the Combined Maritime Forces, a multinational naval partnership headquartered in Bahrain that promotes security, stability, and prosperity across international waters.
The Navy said the engagements were aimed at boosting interoperability and reinforcing collective efforts to ensure safe and secure sea lanes, particularly in strategically significant maritime regions.
In other maritime developments, the Chief of the Hellenic Navy, Vice Admiral Dimitrios-Eleftherios Kataras, was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honor at the South Block lawns in New Delhi on Monday. Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi welcomed his Greek counterpart upon his arrival.
Earlier on Sunday, as India prepared to host the International Fleet Review and Exercise MILAN, the Indian Navy welcomed naval ships from Thailand, Australia, and Sri Lanka.
In a series of posts on X, the Indian Navy’s Eastern Naval Command said, “Welcome! Indian Navy welcomes HTMS Krabi, an offshore patrol vessel of the Royal Thai Navy, on her arrival at Visakhapatnam to participate in IFR 2026 and MILAN 2026, as navies from across the world assemble for the International Fleet Review.”
Welcoming the Australian Navy, it said, “Welcome! From across the ocean to the shores of Visakhapatnam — HMAS Warramunga, a frigate of the Royal Australian Navy, joins IFR 2026 and MILAN 2026, reinforcing our strong professional maritime ties.”
Highlighting close regional maritime cooperation, the Eastern Naval Command also welcomed Sri Lankan Navy ships, stating, “Welcome! SLNS Nandi Mitra and SLNS Sagara of the Sri Lanka Navy arrive at Visakhapatnam to join IFR 2026 and MILAN 2026, reinforcing our close regional maritime ties.”
The International Fleet Review, one of the largest naval events in independent India, is set to feature 71 ships, including 19 foreign warships, with representation from 65 nations during the MILAN exercise.
The Fleet Review will be conducted by the President at sea on February 18. A total of 71 ships will participate in the event, arranged in six lines, including 19 foreign warships and 45 Indian Navy vessels. The remaining ships will include vessels from the Coast Guard, Merchant Navy, and research organizations.
The MILAN exercises, which began in 1995 with just four participating countries, have now expanded to involve 65 navies worldwide. India is set to host MILAN 2026 once again. (ANI)
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