PASSEX 2025: INS Tabar joins UK carrier strike group in Arabian sea; see pics

The Indian Navy conducted a high-profile Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group in the North Arabian Sea on June 9 and 10, reinforcing its commitment to maritime security and international cooperation.The drill featured INS Tabar, a stealth frigate, an Indian Navy submarine and a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, operating alongside the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Richmond. The exercise involved coordinated anti-submarine operations, complex tactical manoeuvres, integrated helicopter operations, and a professional exchange of naval officers.Here are some pictures from the maritime exercise:The joint exercise highlighted the growing partnership between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy, showcasing their shared commitment to maritime security and strong bilateral relations.Simultaneously, on the diplomatic front, Rear Admiral Shantanu Jha, NM, led the Indian delegation for the 10th navy-to-navy staff talks with the Royal Malaysian Navy in Kuala Lumpur. His counterpart, first admiral Harisundar Rajoo, senior director of operations and training, led the Malaysian side. The discussions focused on existing collaborations and upcoming joint initiatives aimed at further enhancing naval cooperation.“Both sides held discussions on ongoing bilateral naval engagements and outlined plans for future collaborative activities,” the Indian Navy shared in a post on X.In a parallel diplomatic move, India’s Secretary (East) P Kumaran met Hajah Johariah Binti Abdul Wahab, Permanent Secretary of Brunei Darussalam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the East Asia Summit Senior Officials’ Meeting in Penang, Malaysia.