Tokyo, Oct 28 (NationPress) The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri, a cutting-edge Shivalik-class Guided Missile Stealth Frigate developed in India, docked at Sasebo, Japan on Tuesday. The Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force extended a cordial welcome to INS Sahyadri upon its arrival, as confirmed by a statement from the Indian Embassy in Japan.

Under the command of Captain Rajat Kumar, INS Sahyadri is actively participating in the Japan-India Maritime Exercise- JAIMEX 25.

In a post shared on X, the Indian Embassy noted, "INS Sahyadri reached Sasebo to a warm reception by JMSDF Sasebo District. Commanded by Capt Rajat Kumar, Sahyadri is taking part in the Japan-India Maritime Exercise- JAIMEX 25."

Commissioned in 2012, INS Sahyadri symbolizes India's commitment to indigenous defense capabilities and aligns with the nation's vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India). This versatile stealth frigate has been involved in numerous operational missions and both bilateral and multilateral exercises.

Recently, personnel from the Indian Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) engaged in cross-deck visits, discussing shared interests as part of the harbor phase of the maritime exercise JAIMEX-25. They participated in various activities, including professional interactions and operational planning.

On October 25, the Indian Navy spokesperson stated on X, "During the harbor phase of JAIMEX 25, Indian Navy and JMSDF personnel engaged in cross-deck visits and deliberated on mutual interests. Other activities included professional exchanges and a combined #Yoga session to promote unity and camaraderie."

Previously, Captain Rajat Kumar met with Rear Admiral Yamaguchi Nobohisa, Chief of Staff of JMSDF, to discuss enhancing maritime cooperation.

Kumar also engaged with local authorities, such as Superintendent Kobayashi Hitoshi, Chief of Police, and Rear Admiral Kondo Shuji, Chief of Coast Guard in the Yokosuka area.

During these discussions, the Commanding Officer explored avenues for improving interoperability and professional exchanges to strengthen maritime collaboration.

INS Sahyadri also participated in the sea phase of the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX-25).

In the sea phase, INS Sahyadri collaborated with JMSDF vessels Asahi, Oumi, and submarine Jinryu, executing a series of intricate maritime drills.

The exercise featured advanced Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) maneuvers, missile defense simulations, underway replenishment, and aerial operations, showcasing a high level of coordination and interoperability between the two navies.

The Ministry of Defence highlighted in a prior press release, "The strategic alliance between India and Japan has been robust over the years, with a significant focus on defense and maritime collaboration. The Indian Navy and JMSDF are pivotal in this evolving partnership, sharing a vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region."