ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2026 Begins in Subic Bay

The second edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) began on 28 September 2026 at Subic Bay in the Philippines. Indian Naval Ships INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish are participating with maritime forces from all ASEAN Member States.

ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise

AIME is a bilateral and multilateral maritime exercise framework involving India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The 2026 edition is the second iteration of the exercise and is being conducted under the theme “Anchored in Trust, United at Sea.”

Participating Indian Naval Ships

INS Sahyadri is a Shivalik-class stealth frigate of the Indian Navy. INS Kulish is a Kora-class corvette of the Indian Navy. Both ships are surface combatants used for maritime operations, surveillance, and naval training.

Exercise Phases and Objectives

AIME-2026 has two phases, namely a Harbour Phase and a Sea Phase. The Harbour Phase includes professional, operational, and social engagements, while the Sea Phase includes coordinated maritime exercises and operational serials. The exercise aims to improve mutual understanding, cooperation, and interoperability among participating maritime forces through practical training.

Important Facts for Exams

• ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which has 10 member states.
• Subic Bay is a strategic maritime location in the Philippines with a long naval history.
• Shivalik-class frigates are among the Indian Navy’s stealth warships.
• 2026 is being observed as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.

India-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation

The exercise aligns with India’s Act East Policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The opening ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of India to the Philippines as Guest of Honour.