Indian Navy's First Training Squadron Leaves Colombo After Conducting Joint Exercise with Sri Lankan Navy

Ships of the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS), comprising INS Tir, INS Sujata and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi, departed Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Thursday after completing a port visit involving bilateral engagements, training activities and community outreach programmes, the Ministry of Defence said on Friday. The visit concluded with a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) alongside Sri Lankan Navy ship SLNS Nandimithra, aimed at strengthening operational coordination and interoperability between the two navies.

During the visit, Indian naval officers met senior Sri Lankan Navy officials, while trainees from both countries participated in reciprocal visits to naval training facilities and ships. Indian Navy personnel also joined a beach-cleaning drive to promote environmental awareness. The squadron's vessels were opened to local visitors and members of the Indian diaspora. The Ministry of Defence said the visit reinforced the longstanding maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and their shared commitment to regional security and cooperation under the MAHASAGAR vision. The First Training Squadron completed a three-day port call in Malé, Maldives, on October 24, which also concluded with a PASSEX involving Maldives Coast Guard Ship Imaduddin.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@indiannavy.