ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2026
The second edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) commenced on 28 September 2026 at Subic Bay in the Philippines. Indian Naval Ships INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish are participating in the exercise alongside maritime forces from all ASEAN Member States.
The exercise strengthens maritime cooperation between India and Southeast Asian countries and promotes greater coordination in the Indo-Pacific region.
ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise
The ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) is a maritime cooperation framework involving the Indian Navy and the maritime forces of ASEAN countries. The exercise provides an opportunity for participating forces to undertake coordinated maritime operations, professional exchanges and practical training. The 2026 edition is the second iteration of AIME and is being conducted under the theme “Anchored in Trust, United at Sea.” The exercise is particularly significant as India and ASEAN countries share important maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean–Southeast Asian maritime region.
Indian Naval Ships Participating
Two Indian Navy warships are participating in AIME-2026:
INS Sahyadri
INS Sahyadri is a Shivalik-class stealth frigate of the Indian Navy. The class incorporates stealth features designed to reduce the ship’s radar and infrared signatures.
INS Kulish
INS Kulish is a Kora-class corvette of the Indian Navy. It is designed for maritime operations and contributes to surveillance, surface warfare and naval cooperation missions.
The participation of both ships demonstrates India’s commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships with ASEAN countries.
Phases and Objectives of AIME-2026
AIME-2026 is being conducted in two major phases:
- Harbour Phase: Includes professional interactions, operational discussions, training activities and social engagements among participating personnel.
- Sea Phase: Involves coordinated maritime exercises and operational serials designed to improve practical cooperation at sea.
The exercise aims to enhance mutual understanding, interoperability and operational coordination among the participating maritime forces.
Significance of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation
Maritime cooperation is an important component of India’s engagement with ASEAN. The exercise contributes to capacity building, professional exchanges and greater trust among regional maritime forces.
The year 2026 is being observed as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, further highlighting the importance of maritime security and cooperation in India’s relationship with ASEAN.
ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2026: Important Facts for Exams
- Exercise: ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026)
- Edition: Second
- Started: 28 September 2026
- Venue: Subic Bay, Philippines
- Theme: “Anchored in Trust, United at Sea”
- Indian ships: INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish
- INS Sahyadri: Shivalik-class stealth frigate
- INS Kulish: Kora-class corvette
- ASEAN: Association of Southeast Asian Nations
- ASEAN members: 10 countries
- 2026: ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation
