Indian Navy's First Training Squadron reaches Maldives

New Delhi: As part of a long-range training deployment, the ships of the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS)—INS Tir, INS Sujata, and the Indian Coast Guard vessel Sarathi—arrived in Male, the capital of Maldives, on 21 October 2026. The squadron was warmly welcomed by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). This visit underscores the strong maritime partnership and close regional ties between India and the Maldives.

During the port call, a senior officer of the First Training Squadron met with the Chief of Defence Force of the Maldives National Defence Force and the Commandant of the Coast Guard. Discussions focused on maintaining continuous contact between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force, as well as enhancing cooperation across various dimensions in the maritime domain. Additionally, the senior officer met with India's High Commissioner to the Maldives, Shri G. Balasubramaniam. As part of the training exchange programme, the squadron's trainees visited the Girifushi Training Centre.

During this visit, various activities including ship visits, sports competitions, social interactions, and community outreach will be organised to further strengthen mutual coordination and understanding between the forces of both countries.

This visit demonstrates the shared commitment to promoting better operational coordination and mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force. Furthermore, it highlights the growing maritime cooperation between the two nations in line with the 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.