Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 Highlights India's Growing Naval Leadership

The Indian Navy is set to host Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 , a four-day multinational maritime training programme, at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi from July 20 to 23 , reinforcing India's growing leadership in regional maritime security and international naval cooperation.

Organised in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) under the Indian Navy-led Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154) , the exercise will bring together personnel from partner nations to strengthen operational coordination, improve professional skills and promote the exchange of best practices in maritime security.

According to a Defence spokesperson, the programme has been designed to combine classroom learning, simulator-based instruction and extensive practical training. Participants will receive comprehensive exposure to key aspects of modern maritime operations while interacting with experienced naval professionals from different countries.

Training sessions will focus on Maritime Law , Maritime Domain Awareness , Information Sharing , Counter-Narcotics Operations , Force Protection , Asymmetric Threats , and the growing role of maritime uncrewed systems in naval missions. Additional modules will cover Damage Control and Firefighting , maritime communications, Survival at Sea , boarding procedures and hands-on experience aboard an Indian Naval ship .

The Combined Maritime Forces , comprising over 40 partner nations , works to enhance security across strategically important international waters through collaborative operations and capacity building. India's active participation underscores its commitment to ensuring a secure, stable and rules-based maritime environment.

Officials said the event will also showcase the Indian Navy's modern training infrastructure , advanced simulators and innovative instructional methods. By integrating theoretical knowledge with realistic operational scenarios, the programme aims to improve interoperability, mutual understanding and readiness among participating navies.

Hosting the engagement at Southern Naval Command, Kochi , further strengthens the establishment's reputation as a premier maritime training centre. Defence officials believe the initiative reflects the Indian Navy's expanding role in multinational naval engagement while reinforcing India's position as a trusted partner for professional maritime training and regional security cooperation.