INS Sunayna Reaches Male: IndiaMaldives Maritime Cooperation Strengthened.

April 08, 2026

INS Sunayna’s Visit to the Maldives

The IOS SAGAR mission saw INS Sunayna reach Malé on April 6, 2026. The visit indicates that India is still trying to bolster its maritime relations and strengthen cordial relations with the Maldives and other partners in the Indian Ocean.

Favorable Reception and Diplomatic Import.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) warmly welcomed the ship, and the two countries have a good and mutually compatible relationship. The visit reinforces the Indian determination to the security of the region and its approach to the Indian Ocean region through the Neighbourhood First policy.

Multinational Crew and Training Activities.

One of the main characteristics of this mission is the existence of a multinational crew, as there are people representing 16 friendly countries on board. Two members of the MNDF are also part of the deployment, symbolising trust and collaboration. Throughout the trip, the crew also performed training activities that included seamanship training, small arms training, and emergency operation training to improve interoperability.

Visits During Port Visit.

The members of the crew will be involved in professional exchange, socialization and sporting activities during their stay in Malé. These interactions are a means of understanding each other and enhancing people-to-people and military-to-military relationships. The High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, G. Balasubramanian, also paid a visit to the ship and met the crew.

Joint Exercise and Strategic Mission.

On departure, INS Sunayna will be involved in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with MNDF Coast Guard. The exercise aims at enhancing the coordination and operational preparedness between the two forces. IOS SAGAR, which fosters maritime co-operation, regional stability and shared security in the Indian Ocean, is a part of the mission.