Mauritius: Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sunayna, designated IOS SAGAR, arrived at Port Louis Harbour, Mauritius, completing Phase I of the Joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance with the National Coast Guard (NCG) Mauritius. This visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening regional maritime security and fostering international collaboration in the South Western Indian Ocean region.
The IOS SAGAR, which set sail from Karwar on 5 April 2025, carries a multinational crew of 44 naval personnel, including representatives from nine friendly nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Notably, two officers and six sailors are from the Republic of Mauritius, reinforcing the ties between the two nations in maritime security.
The joint initiative aims to enhance interoperability, mutual learning, and regional maritime stability. The presence of Mauritius’ officers aboard the ship emphasizes the ongoing collaboration between India and Mauritius in safeguarding their shared maritime interests.
The warm reception at Port Louis was a testament to the deep-rooted relationship between India and Mauritius. Mr. Sooroojebally R, PMSM, the Commissioner of Police, Mauritius, along with high-ranking officials from the Prime Minister’s Office, Mauritius Police Force, Indian High Commission, and NCG Mauritius, attended the welcoming ceremony. Following the reception, the dignitaries were given a tour of the ship, engaging with the multinational crew and learning about their roles in this collaborative mission.
During this port call, the Commanding Officer of IOS SAGAR is scheduled to meet with the Commandant of the National Coast Guard, the Commissioner of Police, and the High Commissioner of India to discuss the progress of the surveillance mission and future collaborations. The ship’s crew will also visit several local institutions, including the Maritime Air Squadron, Special Mobile Force Squadron, and the Police Helicopter Squadron, further strengthening ties between the two countries’ maritime agencies.
The Commander’s agenda includes fostering closer interactions with the multinational crew, who come from diverse backgrounds and represent a strong network of maritime security professionals. On 27 April 2025, IOS SAGAR will open its doors to the public, offering an opportunity for locals to learn more about the ship and its mission. Additionally, activities such as joint yoga sessions, trekking, and friendly sports fixtures have been organized to promote camaraderie and cultural exchange during the ship’s two-day stay.
With the completion of Phase I of the EEZ surveillance, IOS SAGAR will continue its mission by embarking on Phase II with NCG Mauritius. After concluding this phase, the ship will proceed to Port Victoria in Seychelles, continuing India’s efforts to enhance maritime security and cooperation within the Indian Ocean Region.
INS Sunayna – A Symbol of Maritime Strength
INS Sunayna, an advanced Saryu-class Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV), is specifically designed for anti-piracy operations, maritime surveillance, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions. Equipped with state-of-the-art gunnery weapons, electronic warfare suites, and missile defense systems, the vessel boasts cutting-edge technology that enables it to perform a wide array of naval operations. It can also carry a helicopter, enhancing its operational and surveillance capabilities, making it an indispensable asset in regional maritime security operations.
Through initiatives like IOS SAGAR, India reaffirms its strategic vision of promoting peace, stability, and collaborative growth in the Indian Ocean Region, reinforcing its role as a leader in maritime security and regional cooperation.
This visit to Mauritius marks just the beginning of India’s continued commitment to maritime security and regional collaboration, with many more milestones ahead in the coming months.(PR)