India and Russia Finish the 14th Naval Exercise INDRA 2025
Off the coast of Chennai, India, the 14th bilateral Naval Exercise INDRA 2025 between Russia and India took place from March 28 to April 2, 2025. The goal of the exercise was to improve the two navies’ cooperation in maritime security and interoperability.
Complex tactical makeovers, simulated battles, live weapon firings, anti-air and anti-submarine warfare exercises were all part of the organized drills. These exercises promoted the sharing of best operational practices and demonstrated the combined combat capabilities of both countries.The exercise was split into two stages: the Sea Phase (March 31–April 2) in the Bay of Bengal and the Harbour Phase (March 28–30) in Chennai.
Professional contacts and planning meetings took place on land during the Harbour Phase. Advanced naval exercises like helicopter cross-deck landings, ongoing replenishment, and joint engagement drills on air and surface targets were all part of the Sea Phase.
Russia took part with ships from its Pacific Fleet, including Pechanga (Dubna class), Rezkiy (Steregushchiy class), and Aldar Tsydenzhapov (Steregushchiy class), while India sent INS Rana (D52), INS Kuthar (P46), and a Boeing P-8I Neptune aircraft.
The exercise strengthened operational synergy, jointmanship, and a shared commitment to maritime order, world peace, and stability, the Ministry of Defense stressed.
Since its start in 2003, Exercise INDRA has been a pillar of India-Russia defense cooperation. It represents the two countries’ long-term strategic alliance and cooperative strategy in combating shared maritime threats like drug smuggling, terrorism, and piracy.
