Multinational maritime security exercise concludes successfully in Kochi

A four-day multinational maritime security exercise, ‘Operation Southern Readiness 26-2,’ concluded successfully in Kochi on Thursday, July 23, 2026. Organized by the Indian Navy in collaboration with Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the event brought together 276 personnel from 27 countries under the aegis of the Southern Naval Command and the Indian Navy-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 154.

The exercise, aimed at enhancing maritime security cooperation, was inaugurated on July 20 by Rear Admiral Deepak Singhal, Chief Staff Officer (Training), Southern Naval Command. Commodore Dan Thomas of the Royal Navy, Deputy Commander of CMF, also attended the opening ceremony. The closing ceremony featured an address by Commodore Milind M. Mokashi, Commander of CTF 154, highlighting the significance of such engagements in fostering international collaboration.

According to the Indian Navy, the training focused on strengthening coordination and operational readiness among participating nations to address shared maritime challenges. Exercises like this are critical in building trust and interoperability, especially in regions prone to piracy, trafficking, and other maritime threats.

The participation of 27 countries underscores the growing importance of cooperative security frameworks in the Indian Ocean Region. India’s leadership in hosting such initiatives reflects its commitment to regional stability and its role as a key player in global maritime security.

With the successful conclusion of ‘Operation Southern Readiness 26-2,’ the Indian Navy has once again demonstrated its capability to lead large-scale international exercises, reinforcing its position as a reliable partner in promoting peace and security at sea.