Why in news?
In October 2025 two major maritime exercises drew attention. NATPOLREX‑X tested India’s preparedness for oil spills, while Exercise Konkan‑25 enhanced cooperation between the Indian Navy and the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy.
NATPOLREX‑X
NATPOLREX (National Pollution Response Exercise) is a biennial drill organised by the Indian Coast Guard. The tenth edition was conducted off the Chennai coast. It simulated an accidental crude‑oil spill from a tanker to assess the effectiveness of India’s National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan.
- The exercise involved ships and aircraft of the Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and the Oil Industry Safety Directorate.
- Participants practised containing the spill with booms, skimmers and dispersants. They also tested coordination between central and state agencies.
- Observers from neighbouring countries and international organisations attended to exchange best practices.
Exercise Konkan‑25
Exercise Konkan is an annual bilateral naval drill between India and the United Kingdom. The 2025 edition consisted of a harbour phase in Mumbai followed by sea manoeuvres off India’s west coast.
- The Indian Navy deployed its aircraft carrier INS Vikrant along with destroyers and submarines. The Royal Navy participated with the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and support ships.
- Activities included cross‑deck helicopter landings, anti‑submarine warfare drills, surface firing and replenishment at sea. These drills improve interoperability and allow crews to learn each other’s operating procedures.
- Personnel exchanges and cultural visits during the harbour phase strengthened naval ties and mutual understanding.