On April 27, 2025, the Indian Naval Ship Sunayna, designated IOS SAGAR, arrived at Port Louis Harbour in Mauritius after successfully completing the first phase of a joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance mission with the National Coast Guard (NCG) of Mauritius. This significant milestone underscores India's commitment to enhancing regional maritime security and fostering collaborative partnerships with friendly nations.
Setting sail from Karwar on April 5, the Sunayna is hosting 44 naval personnel from nine Indian Ocean Region (IOR) nations, including two officers and six sailors from Mauritius. This multinational deployment highlights the Indian Navy's ongoing efforts to enhance interoperability, promote mutual learning, and strengthen collective maritime growth.
Upon arrival at Port Louis, the ship and her crew received a warm welcome, reflecting the strong ties between India and Mauritius. During the two-day port call, the Commanding Officer of Sunayna is scheduled to hold courtesy meetings with the Commandant of the National Coast Guard, the Commissioner of Police, and the High Commissioner of India, as stated by the Indian Navy.
A variety of activities have been planned for the visit, including crew tours of the Maritime Air Squadron, Special Mobile Force Squadron, and Police Helicopter Squadron. Additionally, the Commissioner of Police will engage with the multinational crew at Police Headquarters. On April 27, the Sunayna will open its doors to visitors, providing an opportunity for the public to learn more about the vessel and its mission.
Events such as trekking expeditions, a joint yoga session, and friendly sports fixtures have also been organized to foster camaraderie among the personnel from various nations. Following the Mauritius stopover, the Sunayna will embark on the second phase of the joint EEZ surveillance with NCG Mauritius before continuing to Port Victoria, Seychelles.
INS Sunayna is a Saryu-class Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) equipped for anti-piracy missions, maritime surveillance, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. The ship boasts advanced gunnery systems, electronic warfare suites, and missile defense measures, with an onboard helicopter that enhances its operational capabilities.
The deployment reflects India's steadfast approach to ensuring security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region through collaboration, capacity-building, and regional engagement. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the Indian Navy's offshore patrol vessel, INS Sunayna, as IOS SAGAR on April 5, emphasizing the mission's significance for regional peace and security.
Singh described the maritime initiative as a reflection of India’s commitment to peace, prosperity, and collective security in the region. "Our Navy ensures that, in the Indian Ocean Region, no nation suppresses another on the basis of overwhelming economy and military power. We ensure that the nations' interests are protected without compromising their sovereignty," he stated. His remarks come amid growing concerns over China's military activities in the strategic waters.
The Indian Navy's presence in the IOR aims to promote international cooperation and strengthen maritime security. The deployment of IOS SAGAR is part of a broader initiative to engage with neighboring countries and enhance collective capabilities in addressing maritime challenges.
As part of this collaborative effort, the Indian Navy has been working closely with various nations in the region, including Madagascar, Maldives, Comoros, Kenya, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. The joint EEZ surveillance mission not only aims to bolster regional security but also to foster goodwill and mutual understanding among the participating nations.
During the mission, the Sunayna's crew will engage with local maritime agencies and participate in various community outreach activities, further strengthening the bonds between India and Mauritius. The Indian Navy's commitment to regional engagement is evident in its proactive approach to maritime security, which includes regular joint exercises and capacity-building initiatives.
As the Sunayna prepares for its next leg of the journey, the Indian Navy remains focused on its mission to ensure a secure and stable maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region. The successful completion of Phase I of the joint EEZ surveillance with Mauritius marks a significant step in this ongoing effort.
In conclusion, the arrival of IOS SAGAR at Port Louis Harbour symbolizes not only a successful mission but also the enduring friendship and cooperation between India and Mauritius. With ongoing collaboration and shared commitments to maritime security, both nations are poised to address the challenges of the Indian Ocean Region together.
