INS Sahyadri Shores Up Indo-Japan Naval Synergy at JAIMEX-25

The Indian Navy’s INS Sahyadri, a Shivalik-class frigate, proudly participated in the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX-25) from October 16 to 18, 2025. Following the exercise, the ship reached Yokosuka Port, Japan, on October 21, 2025, to commence the harbour phase, according to the Ministry of Defence. Prior to its arrival, INS Sahyadri collaborated with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), engaging in intricate anti-submarine warfare and missile defense exercises. These operations aimed to bolster the coordination and cooperation established under the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, enhancing peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific.

While docked at Yokosuka, crew members from INS Sahyadri and JMSDF ships participated in professional and cultural interactions such as cross-deck visits, joint operational planning, and a yoga session. This visit marks part of INS Sahyadri’s extensive deployment in the Indo-Pacific region, including promoting India's indigenous defense technology under 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India). Commissioned in 2012, INS Sahyadri has actively participated in numerous international operational deployments.

During its Yokosuka visit, INS Sahyadri was greeted by R Madhu Sudan of the Indian Embassy in Japan and Rear Admiral Yamaguchi Nobohisa of the JMSDF. Captain Rajat Kumar commands the vessel, as noted by the Indian Embassy in Tokyo through an online post. According to the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, the exercise included support from various Japanese defense units, signifying strengthened tactical capabilities and cooperation with India and other allied navies, contributing to regional peace and stability.

The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized burgeoning defense relations between India and Japan, underscored by shared views on Indo-Pacific peace. After Sanae Takaichi's election as Japan's Prime Minister, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed eagerness to further enhance bilateral ties, recognizing their critical role in maintaining regional peace and prosperity.