Indian Naval Ships Join ADMM-Plus Maritime Security Activity

Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish participated in the 23rd ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security Joint Cooperation Activity at Subic Bay in the Philippines. The activity began on 21 September 2026 at Naval Operating Base Subic and concluded on 25 September 2026.

ADMM-Plus and Maritime Security Cooperation

ADMM-Plus stands for the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus, a defence cooperation framework that includes ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners. The Maritime Security Joint Cooperation Activity is conducted under the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security.

Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish

INS Sahyadri is a frontline stealth frigate of the Indian Navy. INS Kulish is a missile corvette of the Indian Navy. Both ships arrived at Subic Bay on 20 September 2026 as part of India’s operational deployment in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sea Phase and Harbour Phase

The Sea Phase included Search and Rescue, Hydrographic Survey, Casualty and Medical Evacuation, Deck Landing Qualification, and assistance to vessels aground. It also included Maritime Domain Awareness, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, Maritime Interdiction Operations, Replenishment at Sea, Visit, Board, Search and Seizure operations, and cross-deck landings. The Harbour Phase included subject matter expert exchanges, sporting events, and cultural shows.

Important Facts for Exams

• ADMM-Plus is a defence forum linked to ASEAN and its dialogue partners.
• Subic Bay is a naval location in the Philippines.
• INS Sahyadri is classified as a stealth frigate.
• INS Kulish is classified as a missile corvette.

Participating Navies and Policy Context

Naval units from six countries operated during the Sea Phase, including the Philippine Navy, Royal Australian Navy, Royal New Zealand Navy, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and United States Navy. India’s participation aligned with the Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.