Why in news?
The fifth edition of the bilateral naval exercise Samudra Shakti was held at Visakhapatnam from 14 to 17 October 2025. The exercise brought together the Indian Navy and Indonesian Navy to enhance interoperability, build mutual trust and demonstrate joint capabilities for a secure Indo‑Pacific region.
Background
Samudra Shakti, meaning “ocean power,” began in 2018 as part of India’s Act East Policy and Indonesia’s vision of a free and open Indo‑Pacific. The exercise complements other bilateral engagements such as the Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) and reflects a shared commitment to maritime security, disaster response and freedom of navigation.
The 2025 edition saw participation from India’s anti‑submarine warfare corvette INS Kavaratti, fleet tanker INS Shakti and a Dornier maritime patrol aircraft. Indonesia deployed the frigate KRI John Lie along with maritime surveillance aircraft. Personnel from both navies engaged in cross‑deck visits, professional exchanges and social activities, fostering camaraderie.
Key features of the exercise
- Harbour phase: Conducted in Visakhapatnam, this phase included cross‑deck visits where sailors toured each other’s ships, interactive lectures on maritime operations, joint yoga sessions and friendly sports matches. Such engagements build trust and understanding.
- Sea phase: In the Bay of Bengal, the navies practised complex manoeuvres like helicopter operations, air‑defence drills, gunnery and anti‑submarine warfare. They also conducted visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercises to hone skills against piracy and trafficking.
- Interoperability: The exercises tested the ability of ships, aircraft and communication systems to work together seamlessly. Sharing standard operating procedures improves preparedness for real‑world missions such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
- Strategic context: India and Indonesia sit astride key sea lanes of the Indo‑Pacific. Joint exercises enhance their capacity to maintain maritime order, counter piracy and respond to emergencies, reinforcing a rules‑based international order.
Conclusion
Samudra Shakti 2025 underscored the growing synergy between the Indian and Indonesian navies. By training together in harbour and at sea, the two nations have strengthened their ability to safeguard trade routes, respond to crises and contribute to a stable, secure Indo‑Pacific. The exercise also highlights India’s broader engagement with Southeast Asia under the Act East policy.
Source: PIB