The Indian Navy recently completed its biggest operational exercise, TROPEX-25, which was conducted over three months from January to March 2025. This large-scale military drill was created to test and improve the Navy’s ability to handle various security challenges at sea and to ensure that India’s naval forces remained prepared, strong, and capable of protecting the country’s maritime interests.
TROPEX, short for Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise, is an important training program held by the Indian Navy every two years. It helps the Navy check its combat readiness, test new strategies, and enhance coordination with other forces like the Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF), and Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The 2025 edition of this exercise covered a vast area in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal, stretching thousands of kilometers from India’s coastline into the deep sea.
During TROPEX-25, several challenging military drills were carried out. One of the key operations was the Amphibious Exercise (AMPHEX), which focused on landing troops and equipment on enemy shores. A Joint Work-Up Phase helped forces improve their accuracy in hitting targets. The exercise also included Cyber and Electronic Warfare drills to test the Navy’s ability to defend against digital threats and Tactical Combat Operations to prepare for real-life battles at sea.
The scale of the exercise was massive, with 65-70 Indian Navy ships, 9-10 submarines, and over 80 aircraft participating. The Indian Army contributed over 600 troops, while the Indian Air Force deployed fighter jets like Sukhoi-30 and Jaguar, transport aircraft like the C-130, refueling planes, and airborne radar systems (AWACS). The Indian Coast Guard also played a crucial role with more than 10 ships ensuring maritime security.
TROPEX-25 was a significant test of the Indian Navy’s combat skills, teamwork, and preparedness for future conflicts or threats. It demonstrated the country’s ability to protect its waters and work closely with other military branches. The success of this exercise reinforced that the Indian Navy is a combat-ready, credible, cohesive, and future-ready force.
With increasing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, exercises like TROPEX help India strengthen its naval power and ensure peace and stability in the area. By conducting such advanced training, the Indian Navy reaffirms its commitment to defending the nation’s maritime interests and staying prepared for any situation at sea. (PR)