India, Japan, Indonesia Ships Train Together in Andaman Sea

Ships from India, Japan, and Indonesia recently trained together in the Andaman Sea. This exercise helps their navies work better as a team to keep the sea safe and open for everyone. It is part of efforts to make the region more stable.
By Newsroom | Naval Exercises, Indo-Pacific |

A recent trilateral naval exercise involving India, Japan, and Indonesia took place in the Andaman Sea, focusing on enhancing joint operational readiness and maritime cooperation. The exercise, which occurred on February 13, 2026, involved ships from the three nations.

This event is part of broader efforts by participating countries to foster a safe and stable maritime environment. The Indian Navy's spokesperson highlighted the exercise's goal to improve combined operational readiness, interoperability, and maritime cooperation.

Context of the Exercise

The trilateral drill took place on February 13, 2026, in the Andaman Sea. Ships from the navies of India, Japan, and Indonesia participated.

  • The exercise aimed to enhance joint operational readiness.

  • It also sought to improve interoperability between the participating navies.

  • A key objective was to strengthen maritime cooperation for a secure and stable region.

This exercise aligns with India's consistent engagement in various maritime partnerships. For instance, India and Japan have a history of conducting maritime exercises, such as the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) and participation in the larger Malabar Exercise which includes the United States and Australia. The Andaman Sea is a strategically important area for maritime traffic and security.

Evidence of the Exercise

Official communication from the Indian Navy confirmed the trilateral exercise. A post on X (formerly Twitter) from the Spokesperson of the Indian Navy stated:

"Ships from the navies of #India, #Japan and #Indonesia undertook a trilateral exercise in the Andaman Sea on #13Feb 26, enhancing combined operational readiness, interoperability and reinforcing #maritimecooperation towards a safe, secure and stable region."

This announcement provides a direct account of the event and its stated objectives.

India, Japan, Indonesia conduct trilateral naval exercise in Andaman Sea - 1

Operational Framework and Command

The exercise is linked to the operations of CTF 154, a task force that focuses on training and capacity building for member nations of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).

  • CTF 154 operates alongside other CMF task forces, including CTF 150 (Maritime Security), CTF 151 (Counter-Piracy), CTF 152 (Maritime Security in Arabian Gulf), and CTF 153 (Maritime Security in Red Sea).

  • The commander of CTF 154, Cmde Milind M Mokashi of the Indian Navy, formally assumed command from the previous commander from the Italian Navy.

  • The involvement of CTF 154 suggests an integration of this trilateral exercise within a broader multinational maritime security framework.

Trilateral Cooperation in the Region

The exercise underscores the growing emphasis on trilateral cooperation among India, Japan, and Indonesia in the maritime domain. This is not the first instance of India engaging in bilateral or multilateral naval exercises.

  • Past exercises between India and Japan include the Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) in the Andaman Sea.

  • India also participates in multilateral exercises like Malabar, demonstrating its commitment to interoperability with major naval powers.

  • The specific focus on the Andaman Sea suggests an interest in securing vital sea lanes and promoting regional stability.

Expert Analysis

Maritime security analysts note that such exercises are crucial for building trust and improving the coordinated response capabilities of navies operating in proximity. The Andaman Sea is a critical chokepoint and a vital artery for global trade.

"Exercises like these are essential for demonstrating shared commitment to maritime security and ensuring that regional navies can work together effectively in times of need," a defense analyst observed.

The participation of three significant Indo-Pacific nations highlights a shared strategic outlook on maintaining freedom of navigation and countering potential maritime threats.

Conclusion and Implications

The trilateral naval exercise between India, Japan, and Indonesia in the Andaman Sea on February 13, 2026, signifies a concrete step towards enhancing regional maritime security and interoperability. The stated objectives of improving operational readiness and cooperation point towards a proactive approach to maintaining a stable maritime environment.

The exercise's integration with CTF 154 and the Indian Navy's assumption of command within this multinational framework further emphasize the growing role of India in leading and participating in cooperative security initiatives. The consistent engagement in such drills by India with various partners, including Japan, reflects a sustained strategy of building robust maritime partnerships to address complex regional security challenges.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did this naval exercise happen?
The exercise took place on February 13, 2026.
Q: Which countries were part of the exercise?
Ships from India, Japan, and Indonesia took part.
Q: Where did the exercise happen?
The training was held in the Andaman Sea.
Q: What was the main goal of the exercise?
The main goal was to help the navies work together better and make the sea safer.