The bilateral Naval Exercise INDRA 2025 between Indian and Russian navies was held from 28 March to 02 April 2025 in Chennai. This was the 14th edition of the exercise.
Participation of Ships in Naval Exercise INDRA 2025:
Russian Federation Naval Ships Pechanga, Rezkiy and Aldar Tsydenzhapov along with Indian Naval Ships Rana, Kuthar and Maritime patrol aircraft P8l took part in the exercise.
Phases of Naval Exercise INDRA 2025:
Naval Exercise INDRA 2025 was conducted in two phases:
Harbour Phase:
- Harbour Phase was conducted at Chennai from 28 to 30 March 2025.
- The Harbour Phase included Opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), reciprocal visits, sports fixtures, and pre-sail briefings between personnel from both navies.
Sea Phase:
- Sea Phase was conducted in the Bay of Bengal from 31 March to 02 April 2025.
- The Sea Phase saw advanced naval drills, including tactical manoeuvres, live weapon firings, anti-air operations, underway replenishment, helicopter cross-deck landings and exchange of sea-riders.
Highlights:
- The exercise included a wide range of activities and structured drills designed to enhance interoperability towards countering common maritime threats.
- The operations involved complex coordinated manoeuvres and simulated engagements showcasing the combined combat power of the participating navies.
- The exercise achieved its aim of enhanced jointmanship and reinforced the shared commitment to upholding the principles of maritime order, promoting global peace and stability.
- The drills also provided invaluable operational experience, strengthening collective capacity to address contemporary maritime security challenges.
- The exercise facilitated the exchange of best practices, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s operational doctrines and enhancing the ability to operate seamlessly in complex maritime environments.
About Naval Exercise INDRA:
- The INDRA series of exercises has been the cornerstone of the enduring maritime partnership between India and Russia.
- Since its inception in 2003, Exercise INDRA epitomises the long-term strategic relationship between the two Navies.
- Both countries recognise the importance of maritime security and the need for a collaborative approach to counter common threats and concerns.
- The exercise has evolved into a symbol of maritime cooperation, showcasing the two nations’ commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy.