The Second Edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) commenced at Subic Bay, Philippines, on September 28, with Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish participating alongside maritime forces from ASEAN Member States.
Conducted under the theme “Anchored in Trust, United at Sea”, the exercise brings together maritime forces from India and ASEAN countries for professional, operational and social engagements aimed at enhancing mutual understanding, cooperation and interoperability.
The exercise commenced with an Opening Ceremony, where Harsh Kumar Jain, Ambassador of India to the Philippines, attended as the Guest of Honour and addressed the participating maritime forces, the Ministry of Defence said in a press release.
The Harbour Phase will feature a series of professional, operational and social engagements, including Subject Matter Expert Exchanges, sporting and cultural activities, community engagement and Operational Synchronisation, followed by a Pre-Sail Brief ahead of the Sea Phase.
During Sea Phase, participating maritime forces will undertake coordinated maritime exercises and operational serials. The phase will focus on enhancing professional understanding, operational coordination and interoperability through practical training and coordinated activities at sea.
The participation of INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish underscores the Indian Navy’s continued commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships and promoting practical cooperation with ASEAN maritime forces.
The exercise is being conducted in furtherance of India’s Act East Policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
-PIB Inputs
