INS Udaygiri, a stealth frigate, and INS Kavaratti, an anti-submarine warfare corvette of the Indian Navy have arrived at Nha Rong port on their operational deployment to the South East Asia region. The Defence Ministry said, the ships were accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome by personnel from the Vietnam People’s Navy. It said, the reception reflected close and longstanding ties and growing maritime partnership between the two Navies. The Ministry said, Indian Navy and Vietnam People’s Navy will undertake a series of professional interactions, cross-deck exchanges, sporting fixtures and community outreach activities.

This deployment marks the Indian Navy’s first major presence in Vietnam since the bilateral relationship was elevated to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May this year.