India and the European Union (EU) are set to strengthen their maritime cooperation through a joint naval exercise scheduled to take place in the Indian Ocean from June 1 to 3. This strategic initiative aims to enhance counter-piracy operations, interoperability, and overall maritime security collaboration between the two parties.
The exercise will feature the Indian Navy engaging alongside two vessels from the EU—a frigate from Italy and another from Spain—both of which are part of the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) under Operation Atalanta. Participants will focus on conducting advanced naval operations that involve tactical maneuvers, refining communication protocols, and executing anti-piracy drills.
This collaborative effort signifies a deepening partnership in maritime security, particularly in areas known for high risk, such as the Gulf of Guinea and the Gulf of Aden. In recent years, India and the EU have participated in various joint escort missions and training exercises aimed at supporting vessels related to the World Food Programme.
Highlighting the importance of this collaboration, the EU has expressed its commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific region. A statement from the EU reaffirmed shared principles, including respect for international law, territorial sovereignty, freedom of navigation, and peaceful resolution of disputes, which are especially relevant under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
This upcoming exercise builds on the outcomes of a significant February visit by the EU College of Commissioners, led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. That visit established a framework for enhanced cooperation regarding maritime domain awareness and shared assessments.
Subsequently, in March, the fourth EU-India maritime security dialogue took place, further emphasizing joint efforts against illicit maritime activities and the promotion of new initiatives aligned with the strategic goals of both parties. A notable development in this ongoing collaboration was the visit of Vice Admiral Ignacio Villanueva Serrano, Commander of Operation Atalanta, to India in April. His visit was aimed at enhancing cooperation between the Indian Navy and EU naval forces.
Operation Atalanta, initiated in 2008 to combat piracy in the Gulf of Aden, has evolved to address a range of maritime threats, including arms trafficking, drug smuggling, and illegal fishing within the Horn of Africa and the western Indian Ocean.
This forthcoming naval exercise is a testament to the continued commitment of India and the EU to ensure maritime stability and foster regional security through sustained naval engagement and cooperation.
