Submarines, Spy Planes, Warships: Indian Navy, UK Carrier Strike Group train near Pakistan's naval backyard - SEE PICS

Weeks after Operation Sindoor, during which Karachi was reportedly considered among potential targets, the Indian Navy joined forces with the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group for a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) in the North Arabian Sea—highlighting a strong and growing maritime partnership. The exercise, held on June 9 and 10, was aimed at reinforcing mutual commitment to regional security and defence collaboration, an Indian Navy spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Participating Indian naval assets included the stealth frigate INS Tabar, a submarine, and a P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. From the United Kingdom, the Carrier Strike Group featured HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Richmond.

The joint drills involved a range of coordinated naval activities, such as helicopter integration, tactical formations, anti-submarine warfare operations, and professional exchanges between crew members.

According to the spokesperson, the bilateral exercise showcased the increasing interoperability between the Indian and Royal Navies, reflecting a shared interest in maintaining maritime peace and security in strategically vital waters.

“This exercise reflects the close ties between the two navies and their shared vision for a stable, secure, and rules-based maritime order,” the official said.