The visit of INS Surat is seen as another step towards deeper naval cooperation and a shared commitment to safeguarding international waters
The Indian Navy’s guided missile destroyer INS Surat recently visited Bahrain, reinforcing India’s strong commitment to maritime security and cooperation in the Gulf region. The visit focused on strengthening partnerships with multinational naval forces and improving coordination to keep vital sea routes safe and secure.
According to the Indian Navy, the visit helped enhance cooperation with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), a multinational naval partnership based in Bahrain. The CMF brings together several countries to promote stability, security, and prosperity across key international waters. During the port call, Indian naval personnel held discussions and engagements with CMF representatives to improve joint operations and share information more effectively.
The Indian Navy said the interactions were productive and aimed at boosting interoperability among partner navies.
Better interoperability allows naval forces from different countries to work together smoothly during patrols, humanitarian missions, and security operations. The visit also helped strengthen systems for sharing maritime information, which is essential for responding quickly to threats such as piracy, smuggling, and other illegal activities at sea.
India has been increasing its naval presence in the Indian Ocean and nearby regions to support free and safe navigation. With global trade heavily dependent on sea routes, maintaining secure sea lanes is a priority for India and its partners. Bahrain, located in a strategically important part of the Gulf, plays a key role in regional maritime security efforts, making the visit of INS Surat particularly significant.
The port call also reflects India’s broader diplomatic and defence ties with Gulf countries. By working closely with multinational forces, India aims to contribute to regional stability while protecting global maritime trade.
