Why in News?
The Indian Navy’s guided-missile stealth frigate INS Trishul arrived at Plymouth, United Kingdom, to participate in Exercise KONKAN-26, the annual bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy. The exercise is being conducted off Plymouth from 8 to 15 October 2026 to strengthen maritime cooperation and enhance operational interoperability between the two navies.
About Exercise KONKAN-26
Exercise KONKAN is a bilateral maritime exercise between India and the United Kingdom. It has evolved into an important platform for professional exchanges, joint training and cooperation in maritime security.
The exercise is being conducted in two phases. The Harbour Phase includes professional interactions, cross-deck visits, sports activities, cultural engagements and visits to the participating ship. The Sea Phase involves complex maritime operational drills across three domains: air, surface and sub-surface.
Significance
Exercise KONKAN-26 reaffirms the shared commitment of India and the United Kingdom to maintaining secure, open and free seas. It supports the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership outlined in the India–UK Vision 2035 and strengthens mutual understanding, the exchange of best practices and the ability of both navies to operate together in complex maritime situations.
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