Indian and Russian naval ships set sail for the bilateral naval exercise Indra 2025, marking the beginning of the sea phase. The navies of the two countries will engage in complex tactical maneuvers and joint liaison exercises on air and surface targets.
In a note on X, the Indian Navy spokesperson said, “The #RussianNavy and #IndianNavy ships participating in INDRA 2025 are sailing, marking the beginning of the sea phase. Both the navies will engage in complex tactical maneuvers and joint engagement exercises on air and surface targets. #INDRA2025 will demonstrate the continued cooperation and interoperability of both the navies.”
The 14th edition of INDRA, a cornerstone of the enduring maritime partnership between India and Russia, began in Chennai on March 28, a Ministry of Defence (MoD) statement said. Since its inception in 2003, INDRA exercise has demonstrated the long-standing strategic relationship between the Indian and Russian navies.
The exercise has evolved into a symbol of maritime cooperation, demonstrating the commitment of both countries to enhance naval interoperability and operational cooperation.
The Ministry of Defense said in its statement, “Advanced naval exercises including strategic maneuvers, live-fire firing, anti-aircraft operations, replenishment, landings via helicopter decks and exchange of sea cavalry will take place during the sea phase.”
“These exercises and interactions are aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation, strengthening bridges of friendship, exchanging best operational practices and strengthening diplomatic relations between the two countries,” it added.
In a statement shared on X on March 30, the Indian Navy spokesperson wrote, “The 14th edition of the #India – #Russia bilateral naval exercise #INDRA2025 will be held in Chennai from March 28 to April 02. The port phase will include an opening ceremony followed by discussions on subject matter expert exchanges (SMEEs), mutual ship visits, sports fixtures and coordinated exercises at sea.”
“The exercise underscores the long-standing partnership between the two countries. The objective of INDRA 2025 is to strengthen #interoperability and coordinate operations to mitigate contemporary challenges in the maritime domain,” the Ministry of Defence said.
On March 28, the Indian Navy gave a warm welcome to the Russian naval ships Resky, Aldar Tsaydenshapov and Pechenga when they arrived in Chennai, according to a statement shared on X by an Indian Navy spokesperson.
