The Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) — INS Tir, INS Sujata and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi — sailed out of Port Victoria, Seychelles, on 15 Oct 2026 after completing a port call that began on 12 Oct 2026, as part of the ongoing training deployment. The visit strengthened the long-standing India-Seychelles partnership through professional training, capacity building and interactions with the country’s leadership and maritime community.
During the port call, the Senior Officer, First Training Squadron, and the Commanding Officers of the visiting ships called on Maj Gen Michael Rosette, Chief of Defence Forces, Seychelles Defence Force (SDF). The talks centred on the enduring partnership and bilateral cooperation between the two forces.
The programme included professional activities and cross-training visits, as well as firefighting and small-arms training for SDF personnel. The First Training Squadron also carried out a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Seychelles Coast Guard Ship Andromache, which involved joint patrolling, communication drills and coordinated manoeuvres. As part of outreach, the ships organised a medical camp, distributed essential supplies at the Point La Rue elderly home, hosted a visit by schoolchildren and presented a musical performance by the Indian Navy Band.
The deployment highlights the close friendship between India and Seychelles and the Indian Navy’s commitment to capacity building and regional partnerships, in keeping with the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).