Port Victoria witnessed a significant boost to India-Seychelles military partnership as INS Trikand donated crucial ship spare parts to the Seychelles Defense Forces during its port call. The handover, executed by the ship’s commanding officer Captain Sachin Kulkarni, aligns perfectly with India’s SAGAR initiative for secure seas and regional development.
The visit coincides with the maritime phase launch of Lamitiy 2026’s 11th iteration, a joint military exercise symbolizing ‘friendship’. Held biennially since 2001, this year’s event from March 9-20 integrates tri-service Indian contingents—Army, Navy, and Air Force—with SDF troops at the Seychelles Defense Academy.
High Commission posts on X detailed Captain Kulkarni’s engagement with Major General Michael Rosette, discussing the warship’s contributions to the drill. This edition stands out as a tri-service milestone, featuring Assam Regiment soldiers, INS Trikand, and a C-130J Super Hercules.
Defense Ministry statements highlight the exercise’s focus on semi-urban sub-conventional ops, peacekeeping synergy, and tech showcases. Participants are conducting joint maneuvers against simulated threats, sharing expertise on modern tools, and building interoperability to enhance defense ties.
Such initiatives exemplify India’s commitment to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, providing tangible aid like spares while advancing joint training for a stable neighborhood.