India, UK Commence Major Naval Exercise in the Indian Ocean

New Delhi, India – The Indian and UK navies have launched a significant eight-day naval exercise in the western Indian Ocean, underscoring their commitment to strengthening military cooperation. Exercise Konkan, as it is known, aims to enhance combined maritime and air capabilities between the two navies in open seas.

The UK's Carrier Strike Group, spearheaded by the HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier, is participating in the exercise. This deployment highlights the shared vision of India and the UK for a secure, open, and free Indo-Pacific region, reaffirming the "comprehensive strategic partnership" outlined in the India-UK Vision 2035.

British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, emphasized the strategic importance of the exercise, stating that both nations are dedicated to maintaining a rules-based international order in the region. She added that these engagements between the Carrier Strike Groups of both navies set the stage for future collaboration.

Commodore Chris Saunders, Defence Advisor at the British High Commission, highlighted Exercise Konkan as an opportunity for the Royal Navy to engage in complex, multi-domain operations alongside India in the Indo-Pacific. He noted that the exercise allows both maritime powers to improve their combined capabilities and share best practices.

The exercise provides a platform for both navies to enhance interoperability and strategic cooperation. Both the Indian and Royal Navy operate as blue-water, multi-carrier navies, placing them in an exclusive group of maritime powers.

This military exercise is the latest in a series of engagements between India and the UK, aimed at bolstering their defense and security ties and promoting strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.