Mombasa, Kenya: In a significant move to strengthen maritime cooperation and regional outreach, the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS), comprising INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sarathi, made a port call at Mombasa, Kenya on September 25, 2025. The visit marks another key milestone in India’s effort to enhance strategic partnerships across the South West Indian Ocean Region.
The Indian vessels were warmly received by the Kenya Navy, along with the Defence Advisor and the Acting High Commissioner of India in Kenya, reflecting the deep-rooted friendship and growing maritime collaboration between the two nations.
Strengthening the Spirit of ‘MAHASAGAR’
The deployment of the First Training Squadron to Mombasa is part of India’s broader initiative titled MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The initiative underscores India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security, inter-operability, and capacity-building with friendly nations in the Indian Ocean region.
This visit follows earlier port calls by 1TS in Seychelles, Mauritius, La Réunion, and Mozambique, forming a robust regional outreach in the Indian Ocean.
Read also: India Bids Emotional Farewell to MiG-21, Rajnath Singh Highlights Legacy and Indigenous Future
Joint Training and Cultural Engagements
During the port call, naval personnel from both countries are scheduled to engage in a wide array of professional and cultural interactions, including:
- Joint training activities
- Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX)
- Passage Exercise (PASSEX)
- Combined yoga session
- Joint musical performance by Indian and Kenya Navy Bands
- Community outreach programs in and around Mombasa
These initiatives aim not only to build operational synergy but also to promote people-to-people connect, which forms a vital pillar of India’s defence diplomacy.
About the First Training Squadron (1TS)
The First Training Squadron plays a vital role in training future officers of the Indian Navy and friendly foreign navies. Through such overseas deployments, cadets gain first-hand exposure to real-world maritime operations, diplomacy, and humanitarian efforts.
India–Kenya Defence Relations
India and Kenya share a longstanding defence relationship built on shared values, strategic interests, and maritime security cooperation. This visit reaffirms India’s resolve to be a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region and a committed partner in capacity building and regional peace.
