The Indian Navy’s Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar departed Colombo, Sri Lanka on 18 May 2026 following a successful three-day port call, further reinforcing the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and advancing India’s vision of MAHASAGAR - Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

During the visit, the Commanding Officer of IOS Sagar called on senior leadership of the Sri Lanka Navy and held discussions focused on enhancing maritime cooperation, regional security, and collective efforts towards ensuring safe and secure sea lanes in the Indian Ocean Region.

A deck reception hosted onboard IOS Sagar served as a platform for diplomatic engagement and strengthened professional interactions among naval personnel and distinguished guests. The event highlighted the multinational character of the ship’s crew and underscored the spirit of regional cooperation embodied by the deployment.

As part of outreach activities, IOS Sagar welcomed senior Sri Lanka Navy officers, local school children, and members of the Indian diaspora onboard, providing them with an opportunity to experience the operational capabilities and life aboard the ship firsthand.

The visit also featured professional and cultural engagements aimed at fostering camaraderie and mutual understanding. A friendly volleyball match between the personnel of Sri Lanka Navy and IOS Sagar promoted esprit de corps and strengthened interpersonal bonds between the two navies. In addition, the multinational crew undertook cultural visits to Galle and Kandy, gaining deeper insights into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

On departure from Colombo, IOS Sagar participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Sri Lanka Navy Ship SLNS Nandimithra. The exercise included coordinated tactical manoeuvres and communication drills designed to enhance interoperability, seamanship, and operational coordination between the two navies.

IOS Sagar is presently enroute Kochi, continuing its mission of fostering maritime cooperation, interoperability and friendship among partner nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

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VM/SPS

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