Indian Navy Platforms Arrive in Indonesia for IFR and Exercise Komodo Participation

In a significant display of naval cooperation, the Indian Navy deployed two warships to Indonesia on February 16, 2025, to participate in the International Fleet Review (IFR) and the multilateral naval exercise known as Exercise Komodo. 

The vessels, INS Sahyadri and INS Kamorta, docked at the Port of Surabaya, Indonesia, as part of an effort to strengthen maritime partnerships and enhance regional security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The IFR, a biennial event that gathers naval forces from across the globe, aims to foster collaboration and interoperability among participating nations. This year, Indonesia is hosting the event, which is expected to see participation from numerous international naval fleets, including those from Australia, the United States, and several ASEAN countries. The exercise serves as a platform for countries to showcase their naval capabilities, share best practices, and discuss strategies for maritime security.

INS Sahyadri, a guided-missile stealth frigate, is equipped with advanced weaponry and sensor systems, emphasizing India’s commitment to maintaining a modern and capable naval fleet. 

Complementing it, INS Kamorta, an anti-submarine warfare corvette, is renowned for its agility and effectiveness against underwater threats. Both ships symbolize India’s growing maritime presence and its dedication to fostering peaceful waters in the Indo-Pacific.

The exercises planned during this event will include a series of tactical drills and cooperative maneuvers designed to enhance the capability of the participating navies in navigation, logistics, and operational readiness. 

The Indian Navy’s participation in IFR and Exercise Komodo underscores its strategic vision to collaborate with regional partners and safeguard maritime interests in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

The arrival of the Indian naval platforms also signifies Indonesia’s increasing role as a pivotal player in maritime security. As a member of the ASEAN community and a key regional defense partner, Indonesia’s collaboration with India reflects shared concerns about security challenges, including piracy, territorial disputes, and the need for humanitarian assistance in disaster-prone areas.

India’s engagement in this event aligns with its broader maritime strategy, dubbed the “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region), which emphasizes the importance of a stable and secure maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region. 

By taking part in international exercises, India aims to assert its role as a responsible maritime power and facilitate information exchange, training, and operational coordination with its allies.

As the naval assets from various nations converge in Indonesia, the IFR and Exercise Komodo promises to enhance mutual trust and understanding among participant nations. The Indian Navy’s contribution reinforces its commitment to protecting national interests while also supporting regional stability and cooperative partnerships.

The participation of the Indian Navy in the International Fleet Review and Exercise Komodo marks a significant milestone in naval diplomacy. It showcases India’s proactive approach to multilateral engagements and highlights the importance of collective security in addressing contemporary maritime challenges. 

The successful execution of these exercises will not only enhance naval capabilities but also promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, paving the way for greater collaboration among nations in the years to come.