INS Trikand Concludes Historic Port Victoria Visit as Exercise Lamitiye 2026 Goes Tri-Service

Port Victoria March 22, 2026: Strengthening the “Lamitiye” (friendship) between two key Indian Ocean neighbors, the stealth frigate INS Trikand has successfully concluded its port call in Seychelles, departing on March 20. This visit marked a significant milestone in bilateral defense ties, as the Indian Navy participated for the first time in the maiden tri-services edition of Exercise Lamitiye 2026.

Commanding Officer Captain Sachin Kulkarni met with senior Seychelles government functionaries and the Indian High Commissioner, reinforcing diplomatic bonds while handing over critical spares and essential stores to the Government of Seychelles to bolster their local defense capabilities.

The exercise itself showcased high-level tactical coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF). During the harbor phase, specialized Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) training was conducted, followed by a rigorous sea phase. Indian Navy Marine Commandos joined forces with SDF Special Forces for joint boarding operations at sea, while Army troops from both nations executed coordinated landings on Praslin Island.

The maneuvers were witnessed firsthand by Major General Michael Rosette, Chief of Defence Forces (SDF), and Brigadier Jean Attala, highlighting the strategic importance of the drills.This engagement aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region), underscoring the Indian Navy’s role as the preferred security partner and first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.

By enhancing interoperability and maritime cooperation, Exercise Lamitiye 2026 continues to transform historical ties into a modern, multi-domain security partnership.