Sri Lanka Naval Ship (SLNS) Gajabahu arrived at Port Blair, also called Sri Vijayapuram, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on 29 October 2026. The ship has come to take part in the first BIMSTEC-2026 Maritime Security Exercise, which the Indian Navy is organising, according to The Island.
Key points
- SLNS Gajabahu reached Port Blair (Sri Vijayapuram) on 29 October 2026.
- The exercise is the first BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise and is organised by the Indian Navy.
- It began on 30 October and will continue until 3 November, with harbour and sea phases.
- Naval and coast guard forces from seven BIMSTEC member states are taking part.
Welcome and opening day
On arrival, the Sri Lankan vessel received a ceremonial welcome from the Indian Navy, in line with naval traditions. The exercise formally began on 30 October.
On the first day, Commanding Officers and personnel from the participating naval and coast guard ships were briefed on safety protocols. They were also told about the operational activities planned for the exercise.
Who is taking part
The drills are multi-lateral. Warships representing naval and coast guard forces from the BIMSTEC member states are participating. The countries named in the report are Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
The exercise is being held in two parts: a harbour phase and a sea phase. Both will be completed between 30 October and 3 November.
Why it matters
This is the first time a maritime security exercise under the BIMSTEC name is being held. Forces from seven countries are working together in one programme, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are the host location. The safety briefings on the opening day show that the participating crews are expected to follow common procedures during the drills.
What happens next
The exercise will continue through the harbour and sea phases until 3 November. The source report does not give details of the specific drills or of any outcome, so further information would depend on updates from the Indian Navy or the participating countries.
