In this image received on June 23, 2026, Naval officials as INS Udaygiri, a stealth frigate, and INS Kavaratti, an anti-submarine warfare corvette, both indigenously designed and constructed warships of the Indian Navy, arrive at Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, during their operational deployment to the South East Asia region. Photo: Defence PRO via PTI Photo
As part of the Indian Navy’s ongoing operational deployment, the indigenously designed and constructed warships INS Udaygiri and INS Kavaratti arrived at Nha Rong Port in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on Monday (June 22, 2026) marking a significant milestone in India-Vietnam maritime relations.
INS Udaygiri, a stealth frigate, and INS Kavaratti, an anti-submarine warfare corvette, are part of the Eastern Fleet and are led by Rear Admiral Alok Ananda, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet.
Indian Navy informed that the ships received a ceremonial welcome from personnel of the Vietnam People’s Navy, representatives of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and port authorities. The warm reception underscored the longstanding friendship between the two countries and the growing maritime partnership between their navies.
During the port call, personnel from the Indian Navy and the Vietnam People’s Navy will engage in a range of professional interactions, including cross-deck visits, sporting events and community outreach programmes, it added.
Senior-level engagements are also planned to facilitate discussions on maritime security and strengthen bilateral naval cooperation.
The visit assumes added significance as it marks the Indian Navy’s first major presence in Vietnam since India and Vietnam elevated their bilateral ties to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2026.
The deployment reflects India’s continued commitment to deepening defence and maritime cooperation with Vietnam and enhancing stability, security and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.
Published – June 24, 2026 02:07 am IST
