What happened
On October 5, 2025, the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Prince of Wales, commenced Exercise Konkan 2025 with the Indian Navy off India’s western coast. The joint drill will run from October 5 to 12 and features both harbour and sea phases involving professional exchanges, joint drills, and complex maritime operations. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability in anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.
Why it matters to India
The exercise reinforces India’s strategic partnership with the United Kingdom and aligns with the India-UK Vision 2035, emphasizing secure and open seas. The participation of the UK Carrier Strike Group—alongside assets from Japan and Norway—and India’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant highlights India’s growing naval capabilities and its pivotal role in maintaining maritime stability in the Indo-Pacific.