On April 4, 2025, the Indian Navy’s warship INS Tarkash took part in a joint naval exercise with the Royal New Zealand Navy’s ship HMNZS Te Kaha in the Gulf of Aden, a vital sea route near the Indian Ocean. This exercise, known as PASSEX (Passage Exercise), was the final activity of a larger operation called Operation ANZAC Tiger, which was led by New Zealand under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) from March 27 to April 4, 2025. INS Tarkash was deployed for this mission and played an important role throughout the operation.
During the exercise, both navies carried out various training activities designed to improve cooperation and teamwork. These included landing helicopters on each other’s ships (called cross-deck landings), exchanging crew members to observe and learn from each other (Sea Rider exchanges), practicing how to board other ships (cross boarding), and performing tactical movements and communication drills at sea. All of these activities helped both sides understand each other’s procedures and strengthen their ability to work together during future missions.
This joint exercise was especially significant because it took place in the Indian Ocean Region, a strategically important area for international trade and security. By participating in such operations, the Indian Navy continues to show its commitment to regional peace and maritime safety, while also building strong partnerships with friendly nations like New Zealand. The successful completion of this exercise not only improved coordination between the two navies but also highlighted India’s growing role as a reliable and responsible force in maintaining security at sea.
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