The First Training Squadron (1TS) of the Indian Navy reinforced maritime cooperation and people-to-people ties with Indonesia during a three-day port call at Belawan, culminating in its departure on 23 January 2026. The visit aligns with India’s maritime vision of MAHASAGAR, strengthens engagement with Indonesia—a key member of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS)—and advances the objectives of India’s Act East Policy.
Four Ships Participate in Engagements with Indonesian Navy
The deployment included the participation of:
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INS Tir
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INS Shardul
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INS Sujata
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ICGS Sarathi
Officers, trainees and crew from these ships engaged with their Indonesian Navy counterparts through a wide range of activities aimed at fostering mutual understanding and professional cooperation.
High-Level Interactions Deepen Maritime Cooperation
During the visit, Capt Tijo K Joseph, Senior Officer, 1TS, accompanied by the Commanding Officers of the squadron’s ships, met with Laksamana Muda (Rear Admiral) Deny Septiana, Commander of Naval Area Command I (Komando Kodaeral I) of the Indonesian Navy.
The interaction provided an opportunity to exchange views on:
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Shared maritime interests
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Regional maritime security
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Naval cooperation and capacity building
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Strengthening operational interoperability
Onboard Reception Strengthens Diplomatic and Professional Ties
An onboard reception was jointly hosted by the Senior Officer, 1TS, and the Consulate General of India in Medan. The event was attended by senior dignitaries from Komando Kodaeral I, with Kolonel Wirawan Aby P, Chief of Operations, gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The reception facilitated meaningful dialogue, reinforced professional relationships, and strengthened goodwill between the Indian Navy and Indonesian Navy.
Professional Exchanges and Training Exposure for Naval Trainees
A key highlight of the visit was the exposure provided to Indian Naval trainees at various facilities of Komando Daerah Angkatan Laut I (Naval Regional Command I). These engagements offered valuable insights into:
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Operational roles of the Indonesian Navy
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Regional maritime responsibilities
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Command functions and maritime infrastructure
Such exchanges enhance the training experience of young officers while deepening institutional understanding between the two navies.
Cultural Exchange, Sports and Yoga Foster Camaraderie
The visit also featured several people-centric engagements, including:
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Friendly sports and games between Indian and Indonesian naval personnel
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Joint yoga sessions promoting wellness and unity
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Cultural exchanges strengthening bonds beyond professional interactions
These activities fostered a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect between the two forces.
Ships Open to Students Inspire Young Minds
The visiting ships were opened to school children, who participated in guided tours of the vessels. The initiative received an overwhelming response, with students displaying visible excitement and curiosity.
The experience proved to be both educational and inspirational, helping young visitors gain insight into naval life and maritime service.
Strengthening Act East and Regional Maritime Stability
The deployment of 1TS underscores India’s commitment to:
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Strengthening maritime friendships in Southeast Asia
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Enhancing regional security cooperation
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Promoting a stable, secure and collaborative maritime environment
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Deepening engagement under the Act East Policy
It reflects the Indian Navy’s sustained efforts to build enduring partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.
Conclusion
The visit of the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron to Belawan stands as a strong example of India’s proactive maritime diplomacy. Through high-level interactions, professional exchanges, cultural engagement and public outreach, the deployment not only enriched the training experience of Indian naval cadets but also strengthened the strategic partnership between India and Indonesia. The visit reaffirms India’s role as a responsible maritime partner committed to cooperation, stability and shared prosperity across the region.
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Source: PIB
