An Indian naval vessel participating in a regional maritime engagement programme arrived in Male’ on Monday, carrying personnel from multiple countries as part of a joint training initiative.
The offshore patrol vessel INS Sunayna, redesignated as Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR (IOS SAGAR), is operating under a programme that brings together naval personnel from partner countries for shared training and operational experience. A total of 37 personnel from 16 countries are taking part in the current edition, including two officers from the Maldives National Defence Force.
The High Commissioner visited the vessel following its arrival and met with crew members.
According to the Indian High Commission, the IOS SAGAR initiative builds on India’s ongoing maritime cooperation efforts and aligns with its regional vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region. The programme is also linked to a broader framework aimed at advancing cooperation across maritime regions.
The initiative is designed to allow personnel from different countries to train and operate together onboard an Indian naval ship. Participants take part in shipboard activities and structured training modules intended to support coordination and familiarity with maritime operations.
The current programme began with training sessions at naval establishments in Kochi, where participants were introduced to operational practices, seamanship, and maritime security concepts. This is followed by deployment at sea, where personnel engage in joint activities during the voyage.
Countries represented in this edition include the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Seychelles, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, and Bangladesh.
During its deployment, the vessel is expected to conduct maritime engagements and port visits across the region, facilitating interaction with partner navies and maritime agencies.
The IOS SAGAR programme included a visit to the Maldives last year, when the vessel also docked in Male’ for a short stop.
