Indian Naval Ships Arrive in Philippines to Boost Maritime Ties

Three Indian Navy ships — INS Mysore, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti — received a warm welcome from the Philippine Navy as they arrived on a port visit to the Philippines on Tuesday. This visit aims to strengthen maritime ties and enhance cooperation between the two countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Philippine Navy posted on social media, “Welcome aboard. The Philippine Navy welcomes Indian Navy Ships INS Mysore (D60), INS Kiltan (P30), and INS Shakti (A57).”

This visit is part of India’s vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and highlights India’s commitment to being a reliable maritime partner in the region.

Strong Defence Ties

Defence cooperation continues to be a major pillar of India-Philippines relations. The two navies regularly engage in joint activities, port visits, and professional exchanges. Just in May 2024, Indian Navy ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan had also visited Manila.

Other recent Indian naval visits to the Philippines include:

• ICG Samudra Paheredar (March 2024)
• INS Kadmatt (December 2023)
• INS Satpura (June 2022)
• INS Ranvijay & INS Kora (August 2021)
• INS Sahyadri & INS Kiltan (October 2019)

This consistent naval engagement reflects growing institutional maritime cooperation between both countries.

Track-1 Maritime Dialogue & Regional Cooperation

In December 2024, the first-ever India-Philippines Track-1 Maritime Dialogue was held in Manila, where officials discussed shared maritime challenges and explored new ways to deepen collaboration.

Deployment in Southeast Asia

Before arriving in the Philippines, INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan had visited Tien Sa Port in Da Nang, Vietnam on July 24, as part of the Indian Navy’s operational deployment in Southeast Asia. That visit marked a key moment in boosting the India-Vietnam strategic partnership.

Joint Activities & Cultural Outreach

During the port call in the Philippines, sailors from both navies will participate in:

• Professional exchanges like operational planning sessions
• Cultural and community outreach programs
• Friendly sports events and ship tours

The Indian Navy stated that these interactions will help improve interoperability, mutual understanding, and strengthen friendship between the two countries.