Indian Navy, Royal Netherlands Navy Conduct PASSEX Off Kochi Coast

The Indian Navy and the Royal Netherlands Navy carried out a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) off the coast of Kochi, marking another step in the growing maritime and defence cooperation between the two countries.

According to an official defence statement issued on Friday, the exercise on May 7 involved the Indian naval vessel INS Sharda and the Dutch frigate HNLMS De Ruyter. The drill concluded the visit of a high-level Netherlands delegation led by the Deputy Commander of the Royal Netherlands Navy to the Southern Naval Command.

The PASSEX featured a series of interoperability activities, including tactical manoeuvres, communication drills, flying operations , and a ceremonial steam past . Officials said the exercise enabled both navies to improve operational coordination and exchange best practices in maritime operations.

India and the Netherlands have steadily expanded defence engagement in recent years, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where both nations support a free, open, and rules-based maritime order . Naval cooperation has emerged as a key pillar of bilateral ties, with increased port visits, joint exercises, and discussions on maritime security and domain awareness.

The Indian Navy said the latest exercise reflected the deepening India–Netherlands maritime partnership and reaffirmed India’s role as a preferred security partner in the region. The engagement also underscored the shared commitment of both countries towards strengthening regional stability, secure sea lanes, and international maritime cooperation.