**Summary of INS Sunayna (IOS SAGAR) Visit to Malé, Maldives**
**Event Overview**
The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, also known as INS Sunayna, concluded its visit to the Maldives, departing from the port of Malé on April 8, 2026. The visit was part of a strategic initiative by the Ministry of Defence to reinforce the maritime partnership between India and the Maldives, focusing on professional cooperation and cultural exchange between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
**Operational Highlights**
* **Passage Exercise (PASSEX):** Upon departure, INS Sunayna participated in a PASSEX with the MNDF Coast Guard Ship *Ghazee*. The exercise was designed to enhance interoperability and operational coordination between the two maritime forces.
* **Strategic Discussions:** Commander Siddharth Chaudhary, Commanding Officer of IOS SAGAR, held high-level meetings with Major General Ibrahim Hilmy (Chief of Defence Force, MNDF) and Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem (Commandant, Coast Guard MNDF). These discussions centered on advancing joint training initiatives and reaffirming commitments to long-term strategic engagement.
* **International Cooperation:** The visit showcased a broad spirit of maritime cooperation, highlighted by the presence of a multinational crew on IOS SAGAR representing 16 friendly foreign countries.
**Social and Cultural Engagement**
To foster camaraderie and mutual understanding, the visit included several social and cultural interactions, such as sports fixtures between Indian Navy personnel and MNDF members.
**Strategic Significance**
The mission serves as a testament to the strong maritime bonds between India and the Maldives, reinforcing a framework for cooperation dedicated to regional stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.
**Administrative Details**
* **Post Date:** 09 April 2026, 5:35 PM
* **Origin:** PIB Delhi, Ministry of Defence
* **Release ID:** 2250514 (VM/SPS)
* **Visitor Counter:** 319
Key Entities Referenced
Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF): The primary partner military organization that engaged in joint training, cultural exchanges, and operational exercises with the Indian Navy.
Indian Navy: The Indian military force responsible for the maritime mission to reinforce regional stability and bilateral cooperation with the Maldives.
Passage Exercise (PASSEX): A joint maritime drill conducted between the Indian Navy and the MNDF Coast Guard to enhance operational coordination and interoperability.
INS Sunayna (IOS SAGAR): The Indian Navy ship that conducted the professional and diplomatic visit to the port of Malé.
Major General Ibrahim Hilmy: The Chief of Defence Force, MNDF, who led discussions on advancing joint training initiatives and strategic engagement.
Ministry of Defence
INS SUNAYNA (IOS SAGAR) DEPARTS MALÉ,
MALDIVES
Posted On: 09 APR 2026 5:35PM by PIB Delhi
The Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR (INS Sunayna) departed from the port of Malé on 08 Apr 2026, further
reinforcing the maritime partnership between India and Maldives. The visit was marked by a series of
professional engagements and cultural exchanges between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National
Defence Force (MNDF).
On departure, the ship participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the MNDF Coast Guard Ship
Ghazee, underscoring enhanced operational coordination and interoperability between the two maritime
forces.
During the visit, Commander Siddharth Chaudhary, Commanding Officer of IOS SAGAR, called on
Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force, MNDF, and Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem,
Commandant, Coast Guard MNDF. Discussions were focused on advancing joint training initiatives,
reaffirming commitment to sustained strategic engagement. The multinational crew of IOS SAGAR,
comprising personnel from 16 friendly foreign countries, had an insightful and enriching interaction with
MNDF leadership, contributing to a broader spirit of international maritime cooperation.
In addition to professional exchanges, the visit featured cultural and social interactions, including sports
fixtures with MNDF personnel – fostering camaraderie and mutual understanding.
The visit of IOS SAGAR highlights the strong maritime bonds between the two nations, reinforcing
framework for cooperation and a shared commitment to regional stability and security.****
VM/SPS
(Release ID: 2250514) Visitor Counter : 319
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