YOKOSUKA, Japan — The Indian Naval Ship Sahyadri, a Shivalik-class guided missile stealth frigate, participated in the sea phase of the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX-25) from Oct. 16 to 18 and arrived at Yokosuka on Oct. 21 for the harbor phase, the Indian Navy said.
During the sea phase, Sahyadri joined Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) ships Asahi, Oumi and the submarine Jinryu for advanced anti-submarine warfare and missile defense drills. The exercises also featured flying operations and underway replenishment, aimed at improving interoperability between the two navies.
JAIMEX-25 highlights the growing defense cooperation between India and Japan, rooted in the “Special Strategic and Global Partnership” established in 2014. Officials said the exercise underscores both nations’ shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
During the harbor phase in Yokosuka, the crews of Sahyadri and the participating Japanese vessels are scheduled to take part in professional and cultural exchanges, including cross-deck visits, operational planning sessions, sharing of best practices, and a joint yoga event intended to build camaraderie.
Commissioned in 2012, Sahyadri is an indigenously built multi-role frigate that reflects India’s focus on self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. The ship has previously taken part in multiple multinational operations and deployments.
The Indian Navy and the JMSDF have been key players in strengthening defense ties between the two nations, which share a vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, officials said.
