India-UK Naval Exercise KONKAN-26: The Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Trishul has reached Plymouth in the United Kingdom for Exercise KONKAN-26. The joint exercise between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy is taking place from October 8 to 15, 2026.
The exercise aims to improve how the two navies work together at sea. It will include joint drills, professional discussions and training involving air, surface and underwater operations. According to the Ministry of Defence, the exercise is part of the long-standing maritime partnership between India and the UK.
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Exercise KONKAN-26 to Have Two Phases
The exercise is divided into a Harbour Phase and a Sea Phase. During the harbour phase, naval personnel will take part in discussions, visit each other’s ships and join sports and cultural activities. These events will help officers and sailors understand each other’s working methods and build stronger professional ties.
The Sea Phase will focus on practical training and complex naval operations. Both navies will practise different tasks to improve their coordination during real maritime situations.
Harbour Phase
The first phase will give personnel from both countries time to share their knowledge and learn about each other’s ships and operations. Cross-deck visits will allow them to explore the participating vessels. Sports events and cultural programmes will also be held to encourage closer ties between the crews.
Sea Phase
During the sea phase INS Trishul and Royal Navy ships will take part in several operational activities. These will include flying operations and cross-deck landings, firing drills, air defence exercises and seamanship training.
The two navies will also conduct anti-submarine warfare exercises. These drills will help them practise detecting and responding to underwater threats. The activities are designed to improve ship handling, strengthen communication and help both sides operate together more effectively.
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India-UK Partnership and Maritime Security
Exercise KONKAN has become bigger and more advanced over the years. It gives both navies a chance to learn from each other and improve their skills. The exercise is also part of the India-UK partnership under Vision 2035.
India and the UK want to keep sea routes safe and open and maintain peace at sea. INS Trishul’s participation will help the two navies work better together and prepare for difficult situations at sea.
