Why in news?
The Indian Navy and the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN) conducted their inaugural bilateral naval exercise, known as IN‑RoKN, at Busan Naval Harbour in South Korea on 13 October 2025. The exercise marks a new chapter in maritime cooperation between the two countries.
Background
India and South Korea established a “special strategic partnership” in 2015, with defence ties deepening over the past decade. While both navies regularly participate in multilateral exercises, IN‑RoKN is their first dedicated bilateral drill. The Indian Navy deployed INS Sahyadri, an indigenously built Shivalik‑class stealth frigate commissioned in 2012 and based at Visakhapatnam under the Eastern Fleet. The Republic of Korea Navy fielded the Daegu‑class frigate ROKS Gyeongnam.
Key activities
- Harbour phase: Personnel from both navies conducted cross‑deck visits, shared best practices, participated in cross‑training sessions and played friendly sports matches. The Commanding Officer of INS Sahyadri called on senior RoKN officials and local dignitaries.
- Sea phase: Once at sea, INS Sahyadri and ROKS Gyeongnam practised tactical manoeuvres, communication drills, formation sailing and maritime interdiction operations. The ships also simulated search‑and‑rescue and anti‑air warfare scenarios.
- Strategic messaging: The exercise emphasised the Indo‑Pacific’s importance to both nations and reinforced their shared commitment to freedom of navigation, rule of law and multilateral cooperation.
Significance
- Enhanced interoperability: Regular interactions improve understanding of each other’s procedures, facilitating joint operations in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and maritime security missions.
- Indigenous capability showcase: Deploying INS Sahyadri underscores India’s progress under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and promotes indigenous shipbuilding expertise.
- Broader partnership: The exercise complements defence cooperation in areas such as shipbuilding, submarines and maritime domain awareness, further strengthening the special strategic partnership.
Conclusion
IN‑RoKN is more than a naval drill; it signals a deepening of maritime ties between India and South Korea. As both countries navigate an increasingly complex Indo‑Pacific, regular bilateral exercises will enhance security cooperation and contribute to stability in the region.
Source: Press Information Bureau · Hindustan Times