INS Trikand Wraps Up Seychelles Mission, Strengthens Defence Bonds with Exercise Lamitiye
Synopsis
INS Trikand, a key stealth frigate of the Indian Navy, has completed a successful port call in Seychelles, enhancing defense relationships through the inaugural Exercise Lamitiye. This visit emphasizes India's commitment to maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
Key Takeaways
INS Trikand successfully completed a port call in Seychelles.
Engaged in Exercise Lamitiye 2026 , enhancing defense ties.
Provided essential supplies to the Seychelles government.
Joint operations showcased military interoperability. 'Lamitiye' signifies the friendship between India and Seychelles.
New Delhi, March 22 (NationPress) The Indian Navy's INS Trikand, a leading stealth frigate, has concluded its port visit to Port Victoria in Seychelles after a fruitful and engaging engagement.
During this visit, Captain Sachin Kulkarni, the commanding officer, met with high-ranking officials from the Seychelles government and the High Commissioner of India to the nation.
As part of ongoing collaborative efforts, the ship provided essential spares and supplies to the Seychelles government.
The port call, which commenced on March 16 and ended on March 20, included a variety of operational and cooperative activities between the two nations.
INS Trikand took part in the inaugural tri-services iteration of Exercise Lamitiye 2026, alongside personnel from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF). This marked the Indian Navy's first involvement in the exercise.
During the harbour phase, specialized Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) training was conducted on board, which included joint boarding drills with personnel from both nations.
The exercise then transitioned to the sea phase, where INS Trikand collaborated with SCGS Le Vigilant to conduct joint boarding operations at sea.
These operations featured a combined team of Indian Navy Marine Commandos and special forces from the Seychelles Defence Forces.
Following this, Indian Army troops and SDF forces executed coordinated landing operations on Praslin Island, showcasing their joint operational capabilities.
High-level officials from the Seychelles Defence Forces, including Chief of Defence Forces Major General Michael Rosette and Deputy Chief Brigadier Jean Attala, along with other officers, were present aboard INS Trikand during the sea phase to observe the exercise.
Officials stated that the exercise served as a platform to bolster interoperability and strengthen maritime collaboration between India and Seychelles.
The term 'Lamitiye', meaning ‘friendship’ in Creole, signifies the enduring bonds shared between the two countries.
This port visit aligns with India's vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region) and reaffirms the Indian Navy's role as a preferred security partner and primary responder in the Indian Ocean Region.
Point of View
The visit of INS Trikand to Seychelles represents a strategic move in strengthening maritime ties and enhancing regional security. The collaborative exercises reflect a commitment to mutual growth and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Exercise Lamitiye?
Exercise Lamitiye is a tri-services military exercise that involves the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Seychelles Defence Forces, aimed at enhancing interoperability and defense cooperation.
Why is the port call important?
The port call is significant as it reinforces India's commitment to being a security partner in the Indian Ocean Region and enhances bilateral relations with Seychelles.
What does 'Lamitiye' mean?
'Lamitiye' translates to 'friendship' in the Creole language, symbolizing the strong ties between India and Seychelles.
When did INS Trikand visit Seychelles?
INS Trikand's visit to Seychelles occurred from March 16 to March 20.
What training was conducted during the visit?
Specialized Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) training, including joint boarding drills, was conducted during the visit.
