Ships of the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron – INS Tir, INS Sujata and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi have reached off Malé in Maldives as part of the Squadron’s Long Range Training Deployment. The Squadron received a warm welcome from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), reflecting the strong maritime partnership and close regional ties between the two nations. 

 

The Defence Ministry said that during the port call, the Senior Officer, First Training Squadron, called on the Chief of Defence Force, MNDF, and the Commandant, MNDF Coast Guard. The Ministry added that discussions focused on sustained engagement and multifaceted maritime collaboration between the Indian Navy and MNDF.  Cross-deck visits, sports fixtures, social interactions and outreach activities are also planned during the visit to foster camaraderie and mutual understanding between the two forces. 

 

The Ministry said that the ongoing visit reaffirms enhanced interoperability between the Indian Navy and MNDF, and underscores the growing maritime cooperation between the two nations.