Philippines, India, and Singapore navies conduct maritime drills

The second edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) has concluded its sea phase off the coast of Zambales, Philippines. The multi-lateral exercise, themed ‘Anchored in Trust, United at Sea’, began on September 28 and is scheduled to run until October 2.

Participating naval forces from the Philippines, India, and Singapore conducted coordinated maneuvers, tactical formations, and cross-deck helicopter operations. The Philippine Navy deployed the BRP Jose Rizal and BRP Tarlac, while the Indian Navy sent the stealth frigate INS Sahyadri and the missile corvette INS Kulish. Singapore participated with the RSS Justice.

The exercise is designed to enhance maritime cooperation, operational interoperability, and mutual trust between India and ASEAN member states. This year's event is part of the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, following the inaugural exercise held in Singapore in 2023.