Sea phase of KONKAN 25 ends with high operational tempo

The sea phase of the bilateral maritime exercise KONKAN 25 between the Indian Navy and U.K.’s Royal Navy concluded on 8 October, 2025 (Wednesday) following a series of high-tempo naval operations designed to enhance interoperability, operational readiness, and maritime cooperation between the participating navies.

Indian Navy informed that during the sea phase, the forces undertook a wide spectrum of complex maritime drills encompassing tactical air warfare, air defence, surface and anti-submarine operations, and underway replenishment.

In the Tactical Air Warfare and Air Defence segment, carrier-based fighter jets, Airborne Early Warning (AEW) helicopters, and shore-based maritime reconnaissance aircraft executed Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air combat and integrated air defence manoeuvres. These drills reaffirmed the reach, flexibility, and combat readiness of deck-based air assets to operate effectively across domains.

The participating ships also carried out surface gunnery exercises, underway replenishment runs, and coordinated anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions. Maritime patrol aircraft and ASW helicopters operated in concert with surface and subsurface platforms, showcasing seamless tactical integration and professional excellence, the Navy added.

The exercise maintained a high operational tempo, reflecting the robust capabilities and preparedness of both navies in complex, multi-domain warfare scenarios.

The sea phase culminated with a ceremonial steampast, where participating units exchanged traditional naval courtesies. The ships have since proceeded to their respective ports to commence the harbour phase, which will feature joint professional interactions, collaborative activities, and cultural engagements.

Exercise KONKAN 25 continues to underscore the deepening maritime partnership and strategic cooperation between the participating navies, reinforcing their shared commitment to regional maritime security and stability.