What happened?
On June 2, 2025, the Indian Navy’s hydrographic survey vessel, INS Darshak, arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as part of India’s ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral maritime cooperation under the MAHASAGAR vision. During the visit, the ship hosted officers from the Vietnam People’s Navy, Vietnam Border Guard, senior Vietnamese government delegates, and members of the Indian diaspora onboard. The crew, led by Commanding Officer Capt C Praveen Thomas and Defence Attaché Col S Muthukrishnan, paid homage to Vietnam’s founding father by laying a wreath at the statue of Ho Chi Minh. The visit included technical demonstrations of the ship’s hydrographic survey capabilities, professional discussions, and a cultural deck reception attended by dignitaries, including Senior Captain Trieu Thanh Tung and Mr. Le Van Dieng.
Why it matters to India
This visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening maritime ties with Vietnam, a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region. By showcasing its hydrographic capabilities, India aims to support regional maritime safety and contribute to the development of accurate nautical charts, which are essential for safe navigation and maritime infrastructure planning. The collaboration also aligns with India’s broader strategy to enhance defense and security cooperation with Southeast Asian nations, reinforcing its role as a responsible maritime partner.