The Indian Navy's First Training Squadron, comprising INS Tir, INS Sujata, and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi, departed Port Victoria, Seychelles on October 15, 2026, following a four-day port call that began on October 12, 2026. The deployment reinforced the India-Seychelles partnership through professional training and capacity building initiatives.
During the port call, the Senior Officer of the First Training Squadron and commanding officers met with Maj Gen Michael Rosette, Chief of Defence Forces of the Seychelles Defence Force, to discuss bilateral cooperation between the two forces. The program included professional activities and cross-training visits, with specific training provided to SDF personnel in firefighting and small-arms operations.
The naval forces conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Seychelles Coast Guard Ship Andromache, which involved joint patrolling, communication drills, and coordinated manoeuvres. Community outreach initiatives included a medical camp, distribution of essential supplies at the Point La Rue elderly home, visits by schoolchildren, and a musical performance by the Indian Navy Band.
The deployment underscores India's commitment to regional partnerships under the MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, emphasizing capacity building and strengthening maritime cooperation ties with Seychelles.