A four‑day multinational maritime security exercise, Operation Southern Readiness, wrapped up in Kochi with 276 participants from 27 countries. The Indian Navy led the training in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces and CTF‑154.

Key Takeaways

  • 276 personnel from 27 nations participated
  • Jointly organized by Indian Navy and Combined Maritime Forces
  • Inaugurated by Rear Admiral Deepak Singhal, closed by Commodore Milind M. Mokashi

Overview of the Exercise

From July 20‑23, 2026, Kochi hosted "Operation Southern Readiness 26‑2," a four‑day multinational maritime security training spearheaded by the Indian Navy under the Southern Naval Command, in collaboration with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and the Indian‑led Combined Task Force (CTF) 154.

Participants and Objectives

A total of 276 sailors representing 27 countries—including India, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan—took part. The core aim was to sharpen collective response capabilities against piracy, unsafe maritime corridors, and humanitarian crises.

Inauguration Ceremony

The event was inaugurated by Rear Admiral Deepak Singhal, Chief Staff Officer (Training) at Southern Naval Command Headquarters, alongside Commodore Dan Thomas of the Royal Navy, Deputy Commander of CMF. Their remarks underscored the strategic importance of joint naval cooperation.

Training Activities

Sessions covered anti‑piracy drills, disaster‑relief coordination, simulated search‑and‑rescue missions, and network‑centric communications. Participants operated small‑craft, unmanned aerial systems, and live‑feed surveillance tools, fostering real‑time interoperability.

Closing and Future Outlook

The closing ceremony featured an address by Commodore Milind M. Mokashi, Commander of CTF 154, who announced plans to make the exercise an annual fixture, reinforcing India’s maritime leadership in the Indian Ocean.

Historical Background

The Combined Maritime Forces, established in 2002, is a multinational coalition dedicated to safeguarding sea lanes and combating maritime crime. CTF‑154, led by the Indian Navy, focuses specifically on protecting the critical shipping routes of the Indian subcontinent.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that such multinational drills not only enhance tactical interoperability but also send a powerful deterrent signal to regional threat actors, reinforcing India's maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean.

"This exercise showcases India's commitment to maritime security and serves as a cornerstone for regional stability," said a senior naval analyst.
Did You Know?: The Indian Navy aims to achieve a 30‑year ship‑building plan by 2025, positioning it among the world’s fastest‑growing fleets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What types of vessels were used during the training?
A1: A mix of Indian frigates, U.S. destroyers, and UK corvettes, among other multi‑role ships, were employed.

Q2: Will this exercise be held annually?
A2: The Indian Navy has announced intentions to conduct the drill every year to ensure continuous partnership and capability building.