Indian Navy Commences Strategic Training Deployment to Southeast Asia

The Indian Navy today officially commenced the Long Range Training Deployment (LRTD) of its First Training Squadron (1TS) to Southeast Asia. This mission, a cornerstone of the 110th Integrated Officers’ Training Course (IOTC), marks the first major operational outreach of 2026—a year officially designated by India and ASEAN as the “Year of Maritime Cooperation.”

The deployment features a specialized flotilla designed for both training and diplomatic presence, including the lead training ship INS Tir, the offshore patrol vessel INS Sujata, the amphibious tank landing ship INS Shardul, and the Indian Coast Guard’s advanced offshore patrol vessel Sarathi. Over the coming weeks, the squadron will undertake strategic port calls in Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand, focusing on professional exchanges and Joint Maritime Partnership exercises.

Deepening “Jointness” and Regional Diplomacy

Reflecting the Indian military’s push toward integrated theater operations, the deployment is not limited to naval personnel. The contingent includes officers and personnel from the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, fostering tri-service synergy from the earliest stages of officer training.

Furthermore, the 110th IOTC includes six international officer trainees from friendly foreign nations. By opening its “floating classrooms” to international partners, New Delhi is positioning itself as the primary regional hub for professional military education and capacity building.

“The deployment is aimed at providing comprehensive operational and cross-cultural exposure to officer trainees,” a Ministry of Defence spokesperson stated. “It reinforces our sustained maritime engagement in consonance with India’s Act East Policy and our vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.”

Throughout the mission, trainees will participate in cross-deck visits and professional seminars with host navies. These interactions are designed to share best practices in maritime security, disaster relief (HADR), and the maintenance of freedom of navigation in the critical chokepoints of the Malacca Strait.

Summary

The Indian Navy has launched its First Training Squadron (1TS) on a long-range mission to Southeast Asia to mark the 2026 ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation. Comprising four vessels (including INS Tir and INS Shardul), the mission incorporates tri-service personnel and international trainees, serving as a vital instrument of “soft power” and interoperability under India’s Act East Policy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why is this deployment significant for January 2026?

It serves as the inaugural event for the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation, a diplomatic initiative aimed at stabilizing the Indo-Pacific.

Q2: What is the role of INS Tir in this mission?

As the lead ship of the 1TS, INS Tir (A87) is a dedicated training vessel. Unlike combat ships, it features large classrooms and advanced navigational training bridges to mentor young officers.

Q3: Which countries will the squadron visit?

The current itinerary includes high-profile port calls in Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Q4: How does this support “Jointness”?

The inclusion of Indian Army and Air Force personnel allows future leaders to understand the complexities of maritime environments, a key requirement for the proposed Integrated Theatre Commands.