India and Myanmar Begin IMNEX-26 Naval Exercise

The eighth India-Myanmar Naval Exercise, IMNEX-26, began in Visakhapatnam on 10 November 2026 and is scheduled to conclude on 14 November. The Myanmar Navy is participating with UMS King Sin Phyu Shin, while the Indian Navy is represented by INS Rana and INS Sumedha.

Exercise phases and participating ships

An opening ceremony aboard INS Rana on 10 November formally marked the start of the five-day bilateral exercise. Its Harbour Phase includes professional interactions, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges, cross-deck visits and sporting activities. The subsequent Sea Phase will involve coordinated maritime operations, tactical manoeuvres and other naval exercises.

Objectives

IMNEX-26 aims to strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation and improve operational interoperability between the two navies. The exercise provides a platform to exchange professional expertise, build mutual understanding and improve coordination. It aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions—which emphasises regional maritime security and collaboration.

Important Facts for Exams

• Early naval administration: The Burma Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve operated under Royal Indian Navy orders while retaining its own identity and administration under Burma’s government.
• Submarine transfer: Myanmar acquired its first submarine from India in 2020; the former INS Sindhuvir was refitted before handover and renamed UMS Minye Theinkhathu for training.
• Destroyer modernisation: INS Rana is a Rajput-class destroyer; a 2022 upgrade fitted it with VL-SRSAM in a vertical-launch system, replacing an aft S-125 launcher.