India Strengthens Maritime Ties with France and Mauritius

Context:

• Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) deployment in the Southwest Indian Ocean Region (IOR) .

• Key engagements with France (Réunion Island), Mauritius (Port Louis), and also exercises with Italy in the Arabian Sea.

Highlights of the Deployment

1. India–France Naval Cooperation (Réunion Island)

   • Ships: INS Tir, ICGS Sarathi.

   • Welcomed by French Navy ship FS Nivose with a Passage Exercise (PASSEX).

   • Activities:

     • Cross-training visits, joint diving exercises, sports fixtures.

     • Meetings with French Naval Base Commander and Commandant Supérieur des FAZSOI.

     • Focus: regional security, future joint exercises, maritime cooperation.

2. India–Mauritius Naval Partnership (Port Louis)

   • Ship: INS Shardul.

   • Joint patrolling and EEZ surveillance with MCGS Victory and a Mauritius Coast Guard Dornier.

   • Commanding Officer met senior Mauritian leadership → reaffirming trust and professional cooperation.

3. India–Italy Naval Engagement (North Arabian Sea)

   • INS Surat (latest indigenous guided missile destroyer) with ITS Caio Duilio (Andrea Doria-class destroyer).

   • Exercise included:

     • Complex tactical manoeuvres.

     • Aircraft tracking & seamanship evolutions.

     • Cross-deck helicopter landings.

     • Communication drills.

     • Ceremonial steampast.

Strategic Significance

• Regional Security & Stability: Enhances India’s presence in the Southwest IOR—a vital trade and energy route.

• MAHASAGAR Vision: Deployment aligned with India’s broader doctrine of Maritime Security and Growth for All in the Region.

• Capacity Building: Training squadron fosters interoperability, trust, and joint operational capability.

• France: Partnership deepens in the IOR where France has territories (Réunion, Mayotte).

• Mauritius: Reinforces India’s role as a net security provider in the western IOR.

• Italy: Showcases India’s expanding naval diplomacy beyond immediate neighbourhood.