Naval Exercise INDRA 2025 marks the 14th edition of the biennial maritime collaboration between India and Russia. The exercise was conducted from March 28 to April 2, 2025, and outlines the Deep-Root Defence Partnership exercise and shares the obligation to ensure maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Historical Background of Exercise INDRA
Exercise INDRA was inaugurated in 2003 and developed for a broad bilateral involvement from a basic naval exercise that includes different aspects of marine operations. Over the years, there has been a will for strategic adaptation and mutual belief between the Indian and Russian navies.
The Aim of INDRA 2025
The key goals of INDRA 2025 include:
- Increase the difference between the two navy.
- To carry out joint operations to fight sea hazards.
- Exchange of best practices and operational principles.
- To strengthen diplomatic and defence conditions.
Phases of the Exercise
Harbour Phase (March 28-30, 2025)
Conducted in Chennai, this phase focused on
- Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs).
- Reciprocal ship visits.
- Sports fixtures to foster camaraderie.
- Pre-sail briefings to outline operational plans.
Sea Phase (March 31-April 2, 2025)
Held in the Bay of Bengal, this phase featured:
- Advanced naval drills, including tactical maneuvers.
- Live weapon firings and anti-air operations.
- Underway replenishment exercises.
- Helicopter cross-deck landings and sea rider exchanges.
Participating Naval Assets
Indian Navy
- INS Rana (Destroyer)
- INS Kuthar (Frigate)
- P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft
Russian Navy
- Corvette Pechanga
- Corvette Rezkiy
- Corvette Aldar Tsydenzhapov
- India-US Defence Relations
- List of India’s Joint Military Exercises in 2025 and Participating Countries
- Top 5 NDA Coaching in India
Strategic Significance
INDRA 2025 serves as a platform to:
- Demonstrate combined naval capabilities.
- Address contemporary maritime security challenges.
- Encourage a rules-based maritime order.
- Confirm commitment to global peace and stability.
Conclusion
Naval exercise INDRA 2025 not only reinforces the operating coordination between India and Russia but also highlights their shared vision for a safe and stable marine environment. Since the two nations navigate the complications of regional and global marine mobility, such cooperation is important to shape a cooperative security architecture.
FAQs for Naval Exercise INDRA 2025
Ans. Inauguration practice took place in INDRA 2003, with the beginning of India-Russia Navy Cooperation.
Ans. The purpose of the practice is to increase the connection, carry out common operations and strengthen defence conditions between India and Russia.
Ans. Training INDRA is a two-year event that occurs every two years.
Ans. Indian assets included Ins Rana, Ins Kuthar, and P-8i aircraft, while Russian property included Corvettes Pechanga, Rezkiy, and Aldar Tsydenzhapov.
Ans. The Harbour Phase focuses on planning and cultural exchanges, while the Sea Phase involves practical naval drills and operations.