India-Seychelles Joint Military Exercise Lamitiye 2026 Begins

Indian Armed Forces Participate in Lamitiye 2026 Exercise in Seychelles

An Indian Armed Forces contingent has arrived in Seychelles to participate in the 11th edition of the joint military exercise “Lamitiye 2026.” The exercise is being conducted with the Seychelles Defence Forces at the Seychelles Defence Academy from March 9 to March 20 . The initiative highlights the expanding defence partnership between India and Seychelles and aims to strengthen coordination and operational cooperation between their armed forces.

About the Lamitiye Military Exercise

The joint exercise Lamitiye derives its name from the Creole word meaning “friendship.” It is a biennial training exercise organised in Seychelles since 2001 . The programme focuses on improving military collaboration, strengthening operational coordination and promoting mutual understanding between the defence forces of both nations.

Over time, Lamitiye has become an important platform for defence engagement, professional exchanges and capacity building , contributing to stronger strategic ties between India and Seychelles.

Participation from the Indian Armed Forces

The 2026 edition of the exercise involves participation from all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces . The Indian contingent includes soldiers from the Assam Regiment along with personnel and assets from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force.

Naval participation features the deployment of INS Trikand, a stealth frigate designed for advanced maritime operations. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force has deployed a Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules to support logistics and operational activities during the exercise.

Focus on Tactical Training

During the 12-day exercise , troops from both countries will conduct joint training activities aimed at addressing potential security challenges in semi-urban environments . Planned activities include field training exercises, tactical drills, combat simulations, lectures, demonstrations and case studies .

The exercise will also provide an opportunity to showcase modern military equipment and operational technologies used in contemporary defence operations.

Strengthening Bilateral Defence Cooperation

Officials emphasised that Lamitiye 2026 seeks to improve interoperability and coordination in sub-conventional operations , particularly those related to peacekeeping and security missions. By sharing operational experiences and best practices, the exercise is expected to further deepen strategic and defence cooperation between India and Seychelles.

Exam-Focused Points

• Lamitiye is a biennial India–Seychelles military exercise held since 2001 .

• The word “Lamitiye” means “friendship” in Creole .

• INS Trikand is a stealth frigate of the Indian Navy .

• Seychelles is located in the western Indian Ocean .

• The Indian contingent includes personnel from the Assam Regiment along with assets from the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force .