APRIL 5: The Indian Navy Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) INS Sunayna departed from Karwar today to embark on the mission Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR (Security & Growth for All in the Region). The ship, carrying 44 naval personnel from nine Friendly Foreign Nations (FFNs), was flagged off by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. This mission marks a significant step in reinforcing India’s commitment to regional maritime security and fostering international cooperation across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The IOS SAGAR mission is a pioneering initiative by India, aimed at bringing together the navies and maritime agencies of the Southwest Indian Ocean Region on an Indian Naval platform. This mission will provide comprehensive training to sea-riders from the FFNs, creating an unprecedented level of collaboration in maritime security. The deployment will not only enhance mutual trust but will also focus on improving the professional capabilities of naval personnel from the participating nations.
During its deployment, INS Sunayna will visit multiple strategic ports, including Dar-es-Salaam (Tanzania), Nacala (Mozambique), Port Louis (Mauritius), and Port Victoria (Seychelles). The international crew aboard the vessel will undertake a series of training exercises, applying knowledge gained from various professional training schools in Kochi, India. The planned exercises include firefighting, damage control, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS), bridge operations, seamanship, engine room management, switchboard operations, and boat handling. These activities will not only enhance the crew’s skill set but will also improve interoperability between the Indian Navy and its international partners.
IOS SAGAR is a crucial initiative for India, reflecting the nation’s commitment to securing the Indian Ocean and strengthening its relationships with maritime neighbors. The mission will help establish India as a key maritime partner in the region, ensuring greater collaboration in maintaining peace, security, and stability in the IOR. The mission also underscores India’s role in promoting a safer, more inclusive, and secure maritime environment for all stakeholders in the region.
The flag-off ceremony of INS Sunayna for the IOS SAGAR mission will be streamed live on the Indian Navy’s official YouTube channel, allowing people to witness this historic moment. With this mission, India once again reaffirms its dedication to building stronger maritime ties and contributing to the security and growth of the Indian Ocean region.