Indian Naval Ship Trishul concluded her port call at Souda Bay, Greece, on 03 Nov 2026, as part of her ongoing deployment in the Mediterranean Sea. The visit provided an opportunity to further strengthen maritime engagement between the Indian Navy and the Hellenic Navy through professional interactions, operational discussions and cultural engagements.
During the port call, the Commanding Officer of INS Trishul called on senior functionaries of the Hellenic Navy, as well as the heads of the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Centre (NMIOTC) and US Naval Support Activity (NSA), Souda Bay. The interactions focussed on operational logistics requirements, cooperation and mutual support amongst partner navies. The discussions provided an opportunity to exchange views on areas of common interest and explore avenues for facilitating operational support and cooperation.
Professional engagements between Indian and Hellenic Naval personnel included cross-visits and interactions. Hellenic Naval personnel also visited INS Trishul and were familiarised with the ship and its capabilities through an onboard tour. These interactions provided an opportunity for personnel of both navies to gain insights into each other's professional practices and exchange experiences.
The Ambassador of India to Greece, HE Mr Ravi Shankar, also visited the ship. He was briefed on the combat capabilities of INS Trishul and interacted with the crew. A cultural event was hosted onboard the ship, which was attended by the Ambassador of India to Greece; Maj Gen N Dimitrakos, Commander, NATO Missile Firing Installation; senior officers of the Hellenic and US Navy; and members of the Indian diaspora. The event provided an opportunity for interaction among diplomatic representatives, naval personnel and members of the Indian community.
On departure from Souda Bay, INS Trishul undertook a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with HS Limnos (F451) of the Hellenic Navy. The exercise involved a series of coordinated evolutions at sea, including manoeuvring drills, replenishment approaches, cross-deck landing by the ship's integral helicopter and communication procedure drills. The PASSEX provided an opportunity for both navies to undertake coordinated activities at sea and exchange professional expertise and best practices, further enhancing operational cooperation and interoperability.
The port call by INS Trishul reaffirmed the commitment of the Indian and Hellenic Navies towards strengthening maritime cooperation, professional linkages and bilateral relations. Following the successful conclusion of the visit, INS Trishul has proceeded for the next phase of her deployment.