JAIMEX-25, the Japan-India Maritime Exercise conducted from 16 to 18 October 2025, highlighted deepening defence and maritime ties between the two nations. INS Sahyadri, India’s indigenously built Shivalik-class Guided Missile Stealth Frigate, joined Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) ships Asahi, Oumi, and submarine Jinryu for the sea phase, followed by a port call at Yokosuka for the harbour phase on 21 October 2025.
Sea Phase: Advanced Interoperability
During the sea phase, INS Sahyadri and JMSDF assets engaged in advanced anti-submarine warfare and missile defence drills, emphasizing joint warfighting capabilities. Flying operations, underway replenishment, and tactical maneuvers improved operational synergy and enhanced mutual understanding in navigation, logistics, and combat protocol. These activities underscore the strategic focus on building interoperable, future-ready navies.
Harbour Phase: Professional and Cultural Exchange
The subsequent harbour phase in Yokosuka enabled the crews of both navies to participate in a range of professional and cultural exchanges. This included collaborative operational planning, cross-deck visits, sharing best practices, and a combined yoga session, fostering camaraderie and unity. Such activities reinforce the commitment of both nations toward a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, strengthening diplomacy and people-to-people bonds.
Strategic Pillars and Regional Significance
JAIMEX-25 marked another milestone in the ‘Special Strategic and Global Partnership’ between India and Japan, established in 2014. Both countries see this relationship as a critical pillar for peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, regularly conducting bilateral and multilateral exercises such as JIMEX, Dharma Guardian, and Veer Guardian. Maritime cooperation between the Indian Navy and JMSDF exemplifies shared values and the pursuit of regional stability.
INS Sahyadri: Symbol of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
Commissioned in 2012, INS Sahyadri is emblematic of India’s pursuit of indigenous defence capabilities. The multi-role stealth frigate has a history of operational deployments and participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises. JAIMEX-25 formed part of Sahyadri’s Long Range Deployment, underlining Indian commitment to securing sea lanes and projecting power in the Indo-Pacific.
Conclusion
JAIMEX-25 consolidated India-Japan Navy-to-Navy ties, building readiness for cooperative maritime security and establishing the Indo-Pacific as a domain of freedom, rule-of-law, and shared prosperity. The exercise showcased advancements in anti-submarine warfare, missile defence, and joint operational planning, and furthered mutual trust and cooperation.
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Source: PIB
