India Japan naval exercise 2025: INS Sahyadri participated in JAIMEX-25, enhancing maritime security and defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region with advanced drills and cultural exchanges.
INS Sahyadri Joins India-Japan Maritime Exercise JAIMEX-25
Introduction
INS Sahyadri, an indigenously built Shivalik-class guided missile stealth frigate of the Indian Navy, participated in the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX-25) held from October 16 to 18, 2025. This bilateral exercise aimed to enhance interoperability and strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Japan in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sea Phase Operations
During the sea phase, INS Sahyadri engaged in advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and missile defense drills alongside Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessels JS Asahi, JS Oumi, and the submarine Jinryu. The exercises included flying operations and underway replenishment, focusing on enhancing tactical capabilities and coordination between the two navies.
Harbour Phase at Yokosuka
Following the sea phase, INS Sahyadri made a port call at Yokosuka, Japan, on October 21, 2025. The harbour phase featured professional and cultural exchanges between the Indian and Japanese naval personnel. Activities included cross-deck visits, joint operational planning, sharing best practices, and a combined yoga session, fostering camaraderie and mutual understanding.
Strategic Significance
The participation of INS Sahyadri in JAIMEX-25 underscores the growing defense cooperation between India and Japan. Both nations share a commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. This exercise contributes to regional peace and stability by enhancing the capabilities and interoperability of their naval forces.
Why This News Is Important
Enhancing Bilateral Defense Ties
The participation of INS Sahyadri in JAIMEX-25 highlights the strengthening defense relations between India and Japan. Such exercises foster mutual trust and understanding, paving the way for deeper strategic partnerships.
Improving Naval Interoperability
Joint exercises like JAIMEX-25 improve the interoperability of naval forces, enabling them to operate seamlessly together in diverse maritime scenarios. This capability is crucial for effective maritime security operations.
Promoting Regional Stability
By conducting joint maritime exercises, India and Japan contribute to the stability and security of the Indo-Pacific region. Their collaboration serves as a counterbalance to any destabilizing activities in the area.
Showcasing Indigenous Capabilities
INS Sahyadri’s participation demonstrates India’s growing naval capabilities and its commitment to indigenization in defense technology. The Shivalik-class frigate is a testament to India’s advanced shipbuilding and technological prowess.
Fostering Cultural Diplomacy
The harbour phase activities, including cultural exchanges, promote people-to-people ties and enhance diplomatic relations between India and Japan. Such interactions build goodwill and strengthen bilateral relations.
Historical Context
The Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX) is a series of bilateral naval exercises aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation between the two nations. The inaugural exercise was held in 2012, marking the beginning of regular naval engagements. Over the years, these exercises have evolved to include complex scenarios, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between India and Japan. The Shivalik-class frigates, including INS Sahyadri, are part of India’s efforts to modernize its naval fleet with indigenous designs, showcasing advancements in naval technology and self-reliance.
Key Takeaways from INS Sahyadri’s Participation in JAIMEX-25
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | INS Sahyadri participated in the Japan-India Maritime Exercise JAIMEX-25. |
| 2 | The exercise included advanced anti-submarine warfare and missile defense drills. |
| 3 | Harbour phase activities fostered professional and cultural exchanges. |
| 4 | The exercise strengthened the strategic partnership between India and Japan. |
| 5 | INS Sahyadri’s participation showcased India’s indigenous naval capabilities. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is JAIMEX-25?
JAIMEX-25 is the 2025 edition of the Japan-India Maritime Exercise, a bilateral naval exercise between India and Japan aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation and interoperability.
2. Which Indian naval ship participated in JAIMEX-25?
INS Sahyadri, an indigenously built Shivalik-class guided missile stealth frigate, represented the Indian Navy in JAIMEX-25.
3. What were the main activities during the sea phase of JAIMEX-25?
The sea phase included advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) drills, missile defense exercises, flying operations, and underway replenishment drills.
4. Where was the harbour phase of JAIMEX-25 held?
The harbour phase was conducted at Yokosuka, Japan, featuring professional and cultural exchanges between Indian and Japanese naval personnel.
5. Why is INS Sahyadri’s participation in JAIMEX-25 significant?
It highlights India’s growing naval capabilities, strengthens bilateral defense ties with Japan, and contributes to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
6. What kind of exchanges took place during the harbour phase?
Activities included cross-deck visits, joint operational planning, sharing best practices, and a combined yoga session to foster camaraderie.
7. When was the first JAIMEX exercise held?
The first India-Japan Maritime Exercise was held in 2012, marking the beginning of regular naval cooperation between the two countries.
8. What class of ship is INS Sahyadri?
INS Sahyadri is a Shivalik-class stealth frigate, designed indigenously with advanced naval technologies for multi-role operations.
9. How does JAIMEX-25 contribute to regional security?
By enhancing interoperability and joint tactical capabilities, JAIMEX-25 strengthens collective maritime security and promotes peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
10. Which Japanese naval ships participated alongside INS Sahyadri?
JS Asahi, JS Oumi, and the submarine Jinryu participated in the exercise alongside INS Sahyadri.
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