Indian Navy’s frontline stealth frigate INS Sahyadri and missile corvette INS Kulish have concluded their participation in the 23rd ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security Joint Cooperation Activity (EWG-MS JCA) at Subic Bay in the Philippines.
The closing ceremony of the multilateral maritime activity was held on September 25, marking the conclusion of the Indian Navy’s engagement in the exercise.
The activity commenced on September 21 with an opening ceremony at Naval Operating Base Subic, hosted by the Philippine Navy and co-chaired by Japan.
During the harbour phase, participating naval personnel took part in Subject Matter Expert Exchanges covering areas such as peace and security, the ASEAN Navy Chiefs’ Meeting and Guidelines for Maritime Interaction (ANCM-GMI), senior enlisted leadership and marine environmental protection.
The harbour phase also included sporting events, an International Day and Cultural Show, providing opportunities for professional and cultural interaction among participating forces.
On September 22, Indian Navy personnel participated in Operational Synchronisation and a Tabletop Exercise, followed by a Pre-Sail Conference to coordinate activities for the sea phase.
As part of the engagement, a community interaction programme was also organised at the Shepherds of the Hill Center in Zambales.
The sea phase featured a series of coordinated maritime activities, including search and rescue operations, hydrographic surveys, casualty and medical evacuation, deck landing qualification and assistance to vessels aground.
These activities provided participating navies with opportunities to enhance operational coordination, cooperation and interoperability in maritime environments.
The successful conduct of the EWG-MS JCA underscored the importance of professional interaction and practical multilateral engagement in strengthening maritime cooperation among regional partners.
India’s participation in the activity reaffirmed its commitment to regional maritime partnerships in line with its Act East Policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
