The Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS) recently concluded a port call at Mombasa, Kenya, undertaking a wide array of activities aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and fostering relationships between the two nations. The squadron, comprised of INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Sarathi, arrived in Mombasa on September 25, 2025, for a four-day visit as part of its long-range training deployment to the South West Indian Ocean Region.

The port call was marked by a warm welcome from the Kenya Navy, along with the Defence Advisor and the Acting High Commissioner of India. The visit underscores India's commitment to its maritime partners, promoting deeper cooperation across the Indian Ocean Region, under the vision of MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

During the visit, personnel from both navies engaged in a variety of professional and social interactions. These included joint training activities, a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX), and a Passage Exercise (PASSEX). Such exercises are designed to enhance interoperability and maritime cooperation between the two navies.

Cultural exchange and community engagement were also prominent aspects of the port call. A joint yoga session was held, and the Indian and Kenyan Navy bands put on a combined performance. Additionally, community outreach activities were organized in Mombasa, including a visit to a local orphanage.

A deck reception was hosted onboard INS Shardul on September 25, 2025, for dignitaries from the Government of Kenya, the Kenya Defence Forces, and members of the Indian diaspora. The reception was attended by H.E. Abdullswamad Shariff Nassir, Governor of Mombasa County, H.E. Dr. Andrew Mwadime, Governor of Taita-Taveta County, and Major General Paul Owuor Otieno, Commander Kenya Navy. On September 26, the ships were open to visits by local officials, students, and the public.

The First Training Squadron provides practical sea training to officer cadets of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and Friendly Foreign Countries. These deployments cover seamanship, navigation, ship handling, and operational drills, while also giving trainees exposure to international maritime cooperation through overseas visits. The squadron's visit to Mombasa followed earlier port calls in Seychelles, Mauritius, La Réunion and Mozambique.

The Squadron departed Mombasa on September 28, 2025, for Kochi, India, participating in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Kenya Navy on departure to further strengthen interoperability and maritime cooperation. The activities undertaken during the port call exemplify the strong ties between India and Kenya and India's commitment to fostering maritime partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region.