Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania (Agencies): India has inaugurated a new chapter of maritime collaboration with the launch of the Africa India Key Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME) naval exercises, held in partnership with nine African nations. This initiative aims to enhance cooperation and address pressing maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean region.
The six-day drills, named AIKEYME (Sanskrit for ‘unity’), commenced on Sunday at Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Co-hosted by India and Tanzania, the event involves participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa, representing a strong coalition of Indian Ocean maritime forces.
The Indian Navy emphasized the importance of the initiative, noting its design to foster interoperability, boost operational coordination, and highlight the deep-rooted friendship between India and the African nations. Indian Defense Minister Sanjay Seth and Tanzanian Defense Minister Stergomena Tax were the chief guests at the inauguration ceremony aboard INS Chennai, which featured a ceremonial guard parade and the harmonious sounds of national anthems performed by both nations’ military bands.
“This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision, promoting Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions,” the Indian Navy stated.
During the harbor phase, participants engaged in professional exchanges and training in areas such as anti-piracy operations, information sharing, seamanship, and Visit Board Search and Seizure drills. The maritime phase is set to focus on navigation, search and rescue missions, small arms handling, and helicopter coordination exercises.
INS Chennai, a destroyer, and INS Kesari, a landing ship tank, are leading India’s contributions to the joint drills, along with INS Sunayna, which arrived carrying naval personnel from the nine nations involved. The mission is part of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative, which will continue its journey to Nacala, Mozambique, following the conclusion of the Dar-es-Salaam phase.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in regional security and cooperation, further strengthening the strategic partnership between India and the African continent.