ICGS Vigraha’s Jakarta Visit Bolsters Maritime Cooperation Between India and Indonesia

Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Vigraha has begun a three-day operational visit to Jakarta, Indonesia, as part of its wider deployment to ASEAN nations. The visit highlights the increasing emphasis placed by both countries on cooperative maritime security, operational coordination and capacity building in the Indo-Pacific.

Operational Engagements and Joint Activities

The programme features extensive professional interactions between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Indonesian Coast Guard (BAKAMLA). Personnel from both sides will participate in tabletop exercises, shipboard drills and joint training sessions. These activities aim to foster mutual understanding and enhance procedures in operational domains.

Focus on Maritime Law Enforcement and Safety

Engagements prioritise Maritime Law Enforcement, marine pollution response and Search and Rescue. Both countries face similar challenges owing to their expansive Exclusive Economic Zones and high-density maritime traffic. Cooperation helps in countering illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, curbing trafficking, addressing piracy threats and improving responses to maritime accidents.

PASSEX and Capacity Building Initiatives

A Passage Exercise (PASSEX) will be conducted to improve operational cohesion, communication procedures and seamanship coordination. Courtesy calls, ship visits, sports activities and exchanges at maritime training establishments will further strengthen people-to-people ties between the services.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The ICG–BAKAMLA MoU was signed in July 2020 to formalise maritime cooperation.
• Both India and Indonesia operate large EEZs with heavy commercial traffic.
• PASSEX exercises enhance coordination in communication and ship-handling.
• ICGS Vigraha will proceed to Port Klang, Malaysia, after the Jakarta visit.

Strategic Importance in the Indo-Pacific Framework

India and Indonesia, as major maritime democracies, remain committed to a Rules-Based International Order in the Indo-Pacific. Their Coast Guard cooperation translates this vision into practical mechanisms through joint enforcement, coordinated surveillance and improved interoperability. Regular high-level visits, training exchanges and participation in regional maritime initiatives have built a robust partnership. The current deployment of ICGS Vigraha reinforces India’s commitment to supporting regional maritime preparedness and strengthening collaborative response frameworks across ASEAN waters.