India–South Korea Naval Bilateral Exercise (IN–RoKN)

• 16 Oct 2025

Why in News? 

The inaugural edition of the India–South Korea Naval Bilateral Exercise (IN–RoKN) commenced on 13th October 2025 at the Busan Naval Base, South Korea, marking a significant milestone in the growing strategic partnership between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN). 

Key Points 

• About: The inaugural IN–RoKN exercise is structured into two distinct phases — the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase — designed to enhance interoperability, mutual understanding, and trust between the two maritime forces. 
  • Harbour Phase: During this phase, naval personnel from both countries will engage in cross-deck visits, professional exchanges, best practice sharing, sports events, and cross-training sessions. The Commanding Officer of INS Sahyadri will also pay courtesy calls on senior RoKN officials and local dignitaries. 
  • Sea Phase: The sea segment will include complex joint manoeuvres and operational exercises between INS Sahyadri and ROKS Gyeongnam, aimed at strengthening tactical coordination and operational synergy. 
• INS Sahyadri: An indigenously designed and constructed Shivalik-class stealth frigate, INS Sahyadri was commissioned in 2012 and serves under the Eastern Fleet of the Eastern Naval Command, headquartered at Visakhapatnam.  
  • The ship stands as a testament to India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative and its indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. 
• Strategic Significance: As the Indo-Pacific region assumes greater geopolitical importance, both India and the Republic of Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to developing robust maritime partnerships founded on shared interests, mutual respect, and common values.