The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, which is currently operating as INS Sunayna, has officially left Phuket, Thailand, and is now heading towards Jakarta, Indonesia. This movement forms part of the vessel’s ongoing regional deployment aimed at enhancing maritime collaboration within the Southeast Indian Ocean region. The Ministry of Defence stated on April 19 that the ship concluded a high-tempo three-day Operational Turnaround (OTR) before resuming its mission.

Engagements in Phuket

During its stay in Phuket, IOS SAGAR conducted multiple professional and cultural activities in coordination with the Royal Thai Navy (RTN). Such engagements are designed to reinforce naval cooperation between India and Thailand. Commander Siddharth Chaudhary, who oversees INS Sunayna, held discussions with Rear Admiral Sathaporn Wajarat, Chief of Staff of the Third Naval Area Command of the RTN, emphasising their mutual commitment to maritime collaboration.

In addition to formal meetings, the visit included recreational interactions, such as a friendly football match and a joint yoga session, which involved personnel from both the IOS SAGAR and the RTN. Furthermore, a formal deck reception on board offered a platform for high-ranking naval officials to exchange insights about the IOS SAGAR mission while discussing broader maritime issues.

The ship also opened its doors to visitors, facilitating community engagement and fostering people-to-people connections between the nations. The Ministry of Defence noted that this visit exemplifies the deep-rooted maritime partnership between India and Thailand, aligning with the MAHASAGAR vision aimed at promoting security and growth across regions.

Operational Coordination and Exercises

As part of its operational activities, IOS SAGAR demonstrated effective coordination during a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with HTMS Klongyai, focusing on communication drills and formation manoeuvres. These exercises illustrated the high level of interoperability and cooperation between the two naval forces, further cementing their operational capabilities.

Earlier in April, prior to its visit to Thailand, India significantly advanced its maritime engagement in the Maldives with the arrival of INS Sunayna in the capital, Male. This event forms a part of the IOS SAGAR initiative, which is structured under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. The presence of the vessel in the Maldives highlights India’s strategic intent within the Indian Ocean region and its dedication to fortified partnerships with nearby nations.

The report revealed that INS Sunayna, classified as a Saryu-class Offshore Patrol Vessel, is manned by a diverse multinational team composed of representatives from 16 Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs). Upon arrival, it was greeted with full naval honours from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

Operational successes were noted prior to its docking, with joint exercises held at sea. Before entering port, INS Sunayna collaborated with MNDF Coast Guard assets to conduct Joint Seamanship Training manoeuvres. These operations focused on tactical station-keeping, advanced signalling, and essential crew training in damage control and firefighting drills, further enhancing maritime cooperation and interoperability in the region.

Enhancing Maritime Cooperation

This undertaking plays an essential role in facilitating subject matter expert exchanges designed to strengthen maritime domain awareness. The broader intent of INS Sunayna’s deployment is to foster coordination and collaboration among naval forces in the region, contributing to a more secure maritime environment. The three-day visit in the Maldives is expected to consolidate these objectives and promote synergy among the participating nations.

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