On October 13, 2025, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri anchored at Busan Naval Harbour, South Korea. This visit marked the start of the first-ever bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).
The RoKN welcomed the Indian crew with open arms, highlighting their growing naval partnership and strategic ties. This exercise reflects decades of discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
INS Sahyadri, which launched in 2012, is a proud symbol of India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, focusing on self-reliance in defense. Based in Visakhapatnam, this stealth frigate has been involved in various missions and exercises both bilaterally and multilaterally.
During the visit, crew members will engage in activities on land and at sea. They will participate in cross-deck visits and training sessions, sharing valuable insights with RoKN personnel. The exercise includes joint drills between INS Sahyadri and the RoKN ship, ROKS Gyeongnam.
The Indo-Pacific region is becoming increasingly important in global politics. In recent years, India and South Korea have recognized the need for closer military collaboration. This inaugural exercise aims to solidify that relationship further.
Statistics show a notable increase in military engagements between India and South Korea, with naval exercises jumping by over 30% in the last three years alone. This collaborative effort may enhance regional security, particularly in an era where maritime tensions are on the rise.
As geopolitics shift, India’s presence in the South China Sea positions it as a key player in regional stability. The ongoing deployment of INS Sahyadri highlights India as a vital maritime partner in this strategically significant area.
Overall, this exercise not only strengthens military ties but also contributes to a safer Indo-Pacific, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to peace and security on the seas.
For more details on naval exercises and regional security, visit [The Ministry of Defence, Government of India](https://www.mod.gov.in).
