The Indian and Hellenic Navies successfully concluded their first-ever bilateral maritime exercise in the Aegean Sea, marking a new chapter in defence cooperation between India and Greece.

The maiden exercise, conducted from September 13–18, featured two distinct phases. The harbour phase (Sep 13–17) at Salamis Naval Base included cross-deck visits, professional exchanges, and cultural interactions designed to strengthen operational familiarity and camaraderie. The sea phase (Sep 17–18) tested complex naval operations, from anti-submarine warfare to joint gunnery and helicopter drills, reinforcing the two navies’ ability to operate in challenging maritime environments.

India was represented by the guided-missile stealth frigate INS Trikand, while the Hellenic Navy deployed frigate HS Themistokles, submarine HS Pipinos, and one additional submarine. The harbour activities also featured a cultural program aboard INS Trikand attended by Indian Ambassador Rudrendra Tandon, Commodore Spyridon Mantis, Commander of Salamis Naval Base, and senior Greek naval officials. The event highlighted India’s traditions and strengthened bonds between the two forces, while the Indian crew also toured the historic Acropolis.

The sea phase showcased night Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations, replenishment-at-sea drills, and coordinated exercises, underscoring both navies’ professional skill and growing interoperability.

The exercise reflects the increasing convergence between India and Greece on maritime security, stability, and freedom of navigation in international waters. It also provided valuable opportunities for sharing best practices and deepening naval ties.

Following the drills, INS Trikand continued its Mediterranean deployment. Meanwhile, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reaffirming Greece’s support for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and extending birthday wishes to the Indian leader.