Exercise LAMITIYE 2026: Indian Tri-Service Contingent Arrives in Seychelles for Joint Military Drills

NEW DELHI, March 9, 2026 — Marking a major milestone in bilateral defense cooperation, a multi-service contingent of the Indian Armed Forces has arrived in Seychelles to participate in the eleventh edition of Joint Military Exercise “LAMITIYE-2026.”

Scheduled to take place at the Seychelles Defence Academy from March 9 to 20, this year’s exercise is particularly significant as it features the participation of all three wings of the Indian military for the first time.

The Indian contingent, primarily comprising personnel from the ASSAM Regiment, is supported by the Indian Navy’s INS Trikand and the Indian Air Force’s C-130 transport aircraft. Named after the Creole word for “Friendship,” this biennial training event has been a cornerstone of Indo-Seychelles relations since its inception in 2001.

Over the course of 12 days, the joint exercise will focus on enhancing synergy and interoperability in sub-conventional operations within semi-urban environments. The curriculum includes a rigorous schedule of field training exercises, combat discussions, and the exchange of best practices in peacekeeping operations.

Both forces will jointly plan and execute tactical drills aimed at neutralizing modern security threats while showcasing new-generation military equipment and technology.

The program is set to culminate in a two-day validation exercise designed to test the jointness and mutual understanding developed between the troops, further solidifying the strategic military partnership between the two Indian Ocean nations.