India and EU to Conduct Joint Naval Exercise in Indian Ocean from June 1–3

India and the European Union (EU) are set to conduct a three-day joint naval exercise in the Indian Ocean from June 1 to 3, marking a significant step in their growing maritime security cooperation.

Naval cooperation between the EU and India has expanded in recent years through joint exercises in the Gulf of Guinea and Gulf of Aden. (PIB FILE) | Hindustan Times

Exercise Overview

The exercise will feature Indian Navy warships alongside two EU frigates—one Italian and one Spanish—deployed under the EU Naval Force’s Operation Atalanta. The drills will focus on advanced counter-piracy operations, tactical maneuvers, interoperability, and enhanced communication protocols.

Strategic Significance

This collaboration builds upon recent high-level engagements, including the visit of the EU College of Commissioners led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to India in February. It also follows the fourth EU-India maritime security dialogue held in March, where both sides emphasized the importance of cooperation in countering illicit maritime activities.

Historical Context

India and the EU have a history of joint naval activities, having previously conducted exercises in the Gulf of Guinea and Gulf of Aden. The Indian Navy has also provided escort to vessels chartered by the World Food Programme in coordination with Operation Atalanta.

Commitment to Maritime Security

Both parties reaffirm their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific region, underpinned by respect for international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The upcoming exercise underscores the strategic partnership between India and the EU in promoting maritime security and stability in the region.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, The Economic Times)