What happened
On October 28, 2025, the Indian Navy’s indigenously built Shivalik-class guided missile stealth frigate, INS Sahyadri, arrived at Sasebo, Japan, to participate in the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX-25). Commanded by Captain Rajat Kumar, the ship received a warm welcome from the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) Sasebo District. The exercise, held from October 16–18, featured advanced anti-submarine warfare, missile defence drills, and refuelling operations at sea, alongside JMSDF ships Asahi, Oumi, and the submarine Jinryu. The harbour phase included professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, and a joint yoga session to foster camaraderie and coordination.
Why it matters to India
INS Sahyadri’s participation in JAIMEX-25 highlights India’s growing defence cooperation with Japan under the Special Strategic and Global Partnership. The exercise enhances interoperability between the two navies and reinforces their shared vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. The deployment also demonstrates India’s progress in indigenous defence manufacturing under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, showcasing the Navy’s operational readiness and technological capability. With Japan’s new leadership under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the exercise further strengthens diplomatic and maritime ties crucial for maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region.