IN-RoKN Exercise

The IN-RoKN Exercise is a significant step in strengthening the naval ties between India and South Korea.

IN-RoKN Exercise Overview:

• Participants: Indian Navy (IN) and Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).

• Location: The exercise is taking place in Busan Naval Harbour, South Korea.

• Date: The Indian Naval Ship (INS Sahyadri) arrived on 13 October 2025, marking the beginning of this inaugural bilateral naval exercise.

• Purpose: The exercise aims to:

  • Deepen interoperability between the two navies.

  • Enhance coordination in maritime operations.

  • Promote professional exchanges between the Indian and Republic of Korea naval forces.

Phases of the Exercise:

1. Harbour Phase:

   • Cross-deck visits: Personnel from the Indian Navy and Republic of Korea Navy will visit each other’s ships and facilities.

   • Best practices sharing: Officers will exchange knowledge on operational procedures and maritime security.

   • Cross-training sessions: This will enhance mutual understanding and improve skills.

   • Sports fixtures: To foster camaraderie and teamwork between the two navies.

   • The Commanding Officer of INS Sahyadri will also interact with senior officials of the Republic of Korea Navy, local dignitaries, and representatives from the Indian community in South Korea, showcasing India's diplomatic goodwill.

2. Sea Phase:

   • The INS Sahyadri will conduct joint exercises with the ROKS Gyeongnam, a Republic of Korea Navy ship. This phase will focus on operational training at sea, enhancing coordination in various maritime scenarios.

Key Facts About INS Sahyadri:

• Commissioned: 2012.

• Class: Third ship of the Shivalik Class of Guided Missile Stealth Frigates.

• Design & Construction: Built indigenously by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai.

• Capabilities:

  • Advanced stealth features.

  • Equipped with state-of-the-art weapon systems and cutting-edge sensors.

  • Capable of conducting multi-dimensional warfare (surface, subsurface, and air).

  • A versatile asset for India’s blue-water naval strategy.

• Homeport: Visakhapatnam, under the Eastern Fleet of the Eastern Naval Command.

Strategic Significance:

The IN-RoKN Exercise aligns with India's broader Indo-Pacific strategy, strengthening relationships with key regional partners like South Korea. This exercise enhances maritime security cooperation and builds interoperability between the two navies, critical for ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.