ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2026 Begins in Subic Bay to Boost Maritime Cooperation

The ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) began on 28 September 2026 at Subic Bay, Philippines. This marks the second edition of the exercise, involving Indian Naval Ships INS Sahyadri (a Shivalik-class stealth frigate) and INS Kulish (a Kora-class corvette), alongside maritime forces from all ASEAN Member States.

Purpose and Theme of AIME-2026

Conducted under the theme “Anchored in Trust, United at Sea”, the exercise aims to strengthen mutual understanding, cooperation, and operational interoperability among India and ASEAN naval forces. It forms part of India’s strategic Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

Exercise Structure and Activities

Harbour Phase

• Professional, operational, and social engagements
• Subject Matter Expert Exchanges
• Sporting and cultural activities
• Community engagement and operational synchronization
• Pre-Sail Brief before sea activities

Sea Phase

• Coordinated maritime exercises
• Operational serials aimed at enhancing practical training
• Improving professional understanding and operational coordination

Significance for Indian Competitive Exams

• ASEAN: Association of Southeast Asian Nations with 10 member states.
• Subic Bay: A strategic naval location in the Philippines known for maritime importance.
• Indian Naval Ships: INS Sahyadri (Shivalik-class stealth frigate) and INS Kulish (Kora-class corvette) demonstrate India's advancing maritime capabilities.
• Maritime Cooperation: Strengthens India-ASEAN ties, crucial under India's foreign policy and regional security strategies.
• 2026: Designated as ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, reinforcing the focus on joint security and growth.

Conclusion

The ongoing AIME-2026 exercise showcases India's commitment to maritime diplomacy and cooperative security in the Indo-Pacific region. It strengthens India’s naval relationships with ASEAN countries through combined operational exercises and cultural exchange, enhancing collective maritime security.