Indian Navy's IOS Sagar Deploys to Maldives with 16-Nation Crew

IOS Sagar was accompanied by 39 international crew from 16 countries.

In a post on X, Indian Embassy in Maldives said, "IOS SAGAR with 39 international crew from 16 countries incl. MNDF personnel arrives at Male', Maldives - marking first port call of its overseas deployment & reflection of India's vision of "leadership through partnership, strength through unity, progress through peace"."

Reaffirming India's commitment to collaborative maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region, the second edition of Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR commenced on March 16, as per a statement by the Ministry of Defence on March 18.

The Indian Navy assumed the chair of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in February 2026. Therefore, this Edition includes participation from 16 IONS nations of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The initiative builds on India's long-standing maritime cooperation efforts and reflects the Government of India's vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), while also advancing the broader framework of MAHASAGAR - Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions, the statement said.

IOS SAGAR is designed as a unique operational engagement programme that enables naval personnel from Friendly Foreign Countries to train and sail together onboard an Indian Naval Ship. By integrating international participants into shipboard activities and professional training modules, the initiative promotes practical cooperation, interoperability and shared understanding of maritime operations.

As part of the current edition of IOS SAGAR, naval personnel from 16 Friendly Foreign Countries will participate in the programme.

The programme will commence with professional training interactions at Indian Naval training establishments in Kochi, where participants will be exposed to key aspects of naval operations, seamanship practices and maritime security concepts. This phase will be followed by deployment onboard an Indian Naval Ship, where international participants will sail together with Indian Navy personnel and take part in operational activities at sea, as per the Ministry of Defence.

During the voyage, the ship will undertake maritime engagement activities and port visits, enabling interaction with partner navies and maritime agencies across the region. These engagements are intended to strengthen professional linkages, encourage exchange of best practices and foster a deeper understanding of shared maritime challenges.

- ANI