Hans News Service Visakhapatnam

Aspart of the Indian Navy’s Operational Deployment, INS Mysore arrived at Lumut, Malaysia, to participate in the 4th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise ‘Samudra Laksamana’ between the Indian Navy and the Royal Malaysian Navy.

The ship, which arrived on September 9 along with its crew, was warmly welcomed by personnel of the Royal Malaysian Navy and officials from the High Commission of India in Malaysia.

Exercise Samudra Laksamana comprises professional engagements in harbour and at sea, including cross-deck visits, operational interactions and sporting engagements. These activities will provide opportunities for personnel of both navies to exchange professional experiences, enhance interoperability and foster greater mutual understanding.

Building upon the momentum generated by recent bilateral engagements, including the 12th India - Malaysia Sub Committee Meeting held on July 1, the visit underscores the strong and enduring maritime partnership between India and Malaysia and reflects the expanding scope of cooperation between the two navies, representing another important step in advancing maritime cooperation and strengthening professional exchanges between the two countries.

The engagement is aligned with the government of India’s vision of MAHASAGAR and the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026.

‘Lokayan 2026’

Meanwhile, as part of the ongoing transoceanic expedition ‘Lokayan 2026’, the Indian Navy’s sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, arrived at Livorno, Italy, on September 9. Sailing over 17,400 nautical miles across 10 countries during the deployment, the ship has been carrying forward India’s maritime traditions and spirit of friendship across the seas.

En route to Livorno, INS Sudarshini conducted a passage exercise with the Italian Navy’s sail training ship ITS Palinuro in the Mediterranean Sea. The joint evolution involved coordinated manoeuvring and sail-handling drills, providing an opportunity for the crews of the two sailing ships to interact

and exchange professional expertise.

Livorno, home to the prestigious Italian Naval Academy (Accademia Navale), provides an opportunity for further professional engagement between the two Navies. During the port call, cross-deck visits and interactions between Indian trainees and Italian cadets will take place and the ship will remain open to visitors.