Indian Armed Forces Join Seychelles for Exercise LAMITIYE-2026
Synopsis
An Indian military contingent has landed in Seychelles for the pivotal Exercise LAMITIYE-2026, promoting cooperation and enhancing operational readiness. This joint exercise is a significant milestone in fostering military ties.
Key Takeaways
Joint military exercise: Exercise LAMITIYE-2026 enhances India-Seychelles military relations.
Multi-service participation: Includes personnel from Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Focus on peacekeeping: Aims to improve cooperation in sub-conventional operations.
Training activities: Involves tactical drills and advanced technology demonstrations.
Bilateral discussions: Strengthens ongoing maritime cooperation between the nations.
Victoria, March 9 (NationPress) A contingent from the Indian Armed Forces has arrived in Seychelles to engage in the 11th edition of the joint military exercise titled ‘Exercise LAMITIYE-2026’ alongside the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF).
This exercise is set to occur from March 9 to 20 at the Seychelles Defence Academy.
'LAMITIYE', which translates to 'friendship' in Creole, has been a biennial training initiative in Seychelles since 2001, designed to enhance military collaboration between the two nations.
This year’s exercise is particularly noteworthy, as it includes personnel from all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces.
The Indian delegation comprises members from the Assam Regiment, in addition to representatives from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. The Indian Navy has dispatched INS Trikand, while the Air Force is contributing with a C-130 aircraft, according to official statements.
The focus of the exercise will be on bolstering cooperation in sub-conventional operations within a semi-urban context, improving collaboration and interoperability during peacekeeping missions. Additionally, both forces will have the chance to share skills, operational experiences, and best practices, further strengthening their bilateral military ties.
Over the span of 12 days, troops from both nations will participate in joint training, planning, and execution of various tactical maneuvers aimed at countering potential threats in urban-like environments. This exercise will also demonstrate the application of advanced equipment and technologies.
The training schedule will encompass field exercises, combat discussions, case analyses, lectures, and demonstrations, culminating in a two-day validation exercise.
Officials indicated that this joint initiative is anticipated to foster greater mutual understanding and enhance operational coordination between the Indian and Seychelles armed forces.
Moreover, on February 19, the Indian Navy engaged in a series of significant bilateral discussions with Seychelles' naval leaders during the International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam.
The Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, met with Major General Michael Rosette, the chief of the Seychelles Defence Forces, to deliberate on ongoing maritime cooperation, including routine port visits by Indian naval vessels, training partnerships, and hydrographic collaboration under India's SAGAR initiative.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the importance of international military cooperation. The upcoming Exercise LAMITIYE-2026 not only exemplifies the enduring friendship between India and Seychelles but also enhances regional security through shared training and operational synergy.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Exercise LAMITIYE-2026?
Exercise LAMITIYE-2026 is a joint military exercise between the Indian Armed Forces and the Seychelles Defence Forces aimed at enhancing military cooperation.
When will the exercise take place?
The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from March 9 to 20, 2026.
What branches of the Indian Armed Forces are participating?
This year’s exercise includes personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
What is the significance of the term 'LAMITIYE'?
'LAMITIYE' means 'friendship' in the Creole language, reflecting the cooperative spirit of the exercise.
How will the exercise benefit both nations?
The exercise will enhance interoperability and mutual understanding between the armed forces of India and Seychelles, improving their capabilities in peacekeeping operations.
