An Indian Armed Forces contingent has arrived in Seychelles to participate in the 11th edition of the joint military exercise “Lamitiye 2026.” The exercise is being conducted with the Seychelles Defence Forces at the Seychelles Defence Academy from March 9 to March 20, 2026. The exercise highlights the growing defence cooperation between India and Seychelles and aims to enhance operational coordination between the armed forces of both countries.
About the Lamitiye 2026 Military Exercise
The name “Lamitiye” means “friendship” in the Creole language spoken in Seychelles.
The exercise is a biennial joint military training programme conducted in Seychelles since 2001.
Objectives of the Exercise
The primary objectives include:
- Strengthening defence cooperation
- Enhancing interoperability between armed forces
- Improving operational coordination
- Building mutual understanding between military personnel
Over the years, the exercise has become an important platform for capacity building and defence engagement between India and Seychelles.
Participation from the Indian Armed Forces
The 2026 edition of the exercise features participation from all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the military cooperation.
Indian Army: The Indian contingent includes personnel from the Assam Regiment, known for its operational experience and combat training.
Indian Navy: The INS Trikand has been deployed to participate in maritime components of the exercise. INS Trikand is a stealth frigate designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, and surface combat operations.
Indian Air Force: The C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft has been deployed to support logistics and operational activities during the exercise.
Focus on Tactical Training
The 12-day exercise includes a range of joint training activities aimed at improving combat readiness and operational coordination.
Key Training Activities
Planned activities include:
- Field training exercises
- Tactical drills
- Combat discussions
- Case studies and lectures
- Demonstrations of military equipment
The exercise will particularly focus on security challenges in semi-urban environments, which are increasingly relevant in modern military operations.
Demonstration of Modern Military Technology
The exercise also provides an opportunity for both countries to showcase new-generation military equipment and technologies used in modern warfare.
This helps participating forces learn about:
- Advanced surveillance systems
- Modern combat gear
- Tactical communication equipment
- Joint operational strategies
Such exchanges contribute to improving the effectiveness of multinational military cooperation.
Strategic Importance of India–Seychelles Defence Cooperation
Seychelles occupies a strategic position in the Indian Ocean region, which is crucial for global maritime trade routes.
India and Seychelles share strong defence and maritime security ties, focusing on:
- Maritime surveillance
- Anti-piracy operations
- Capacity building of Seychelles’ armed forces
- Protection of sea lanes in the Indian Ocean
Joint exercises like Lamitiye help strengthen regional security and stability.
India’s Role in Indian Ocean Security
India has been actively strengthening defence partnerships with island nations in the Indian Ocean region.
These partnerships contribute to:
- Ensuring maritime security
- Combating piracy and illegal activities at sea
- Enhancing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief cooperation
- Strengthening regional stability
Lamitiye 2026 reflects India’s commitment to promoting cooperative security in the region.
Exam-Oriented Facts
- Lamitiye 2026 is the 11th edition of the joint India–Seychelles military exercise.
- Conducted from March 9–20, 2026.
- Venue: Seychelles Defence Academy.
- “Lamitiye” means friendship in Creole.
- Exercise started in 2001 and is held biennially.
- Indian Army participation from Assam Regiment.
- Indian Navy deployed INS Trikand.
- Indian Air Force deployed C-130 aircraft.
Lamitiye 2026 FAQs
It is the 11th edition of a joint military exercise between India and Seychelles.
At the Seychelles Defence Academy in Seychelles.
It means “friendship” in the Creole language.
Personnel from the Assam Regiment, INS Trikand of the Indian Navy, and a C-130 aircraft from the Indian Air Force.
To strengthen defence cooperation, enhance interoperability, and improve joint operational capabilities.
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