NEW DELHI — The Indian Navy and the Royal Navy have begun their annual bilateral maritime exercise, Konkan-25, off India’s western coast, defense officials announced Sunday.
The exercise, which takes place from October 5 to 12, aims to strengthen interoperability and deepen cooperation between the two navies, officials said in a statement. Conducted in two phases — harbor and sea — the drill has grown in scale and complexity over the past two decades, reflecting the expanding defense partnership between India and the United Kingdom.
During the harbor phase, personnel from both navies will participate in professional exchanges, ship visits, sporting events, and cultural programs. Joint Working Group meetings and expert exchanges are also planned, the Indian Navy said.
The sea phase will feature advanced operational drills, including anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare exercises, as well as flying operations and other seamanship evolutions.
The United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group 25, led by HMS Prince of Wales and joined by assets from Norway and Japan, will participate alongside the Indian Navy’s carrier battle group centered on the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
Officials said the exercise underscores both nations’ shared commitment to maintaining secure, open, and free seas, in line with the “India-UK Vision 2035” strategic framework.
Following Konkan-25, the UK Carrier Strike Group will conduct a one-day joint exercise with the Indian Air Force on October 14 before continuing its regional deployment.
Defense officials described Konkan-25 as a key platform for consolidating strategic ties, enhancing interoperability, and contributing to regional maritime stability.
