INS Sahyadri in Manila After Drills With Philippine Navy

INS Sahyadri in exercises with the Philippine Navy | Photo: Indian Navy

Indian Naval Ship Sahyadri, an indigenously designed and built stealth frigate, has made a port call in Manila following a maritime exercise with the Philippine Navy. The ship is currently deployed in the Indo-Pacific, where it is participating in a number of multilateral and bilateral exercises including MALABAR-2025, AUSINDEX-2025, JAIMEX-25 and its first bilateral exercise with the Republic of Korea Navy.

Prior to arriving in Manila, the two navies conducted tactical communication drills, navigation manoeuvres, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) exercises and flying operations. According to the announcement, the activities were intended to refine “professional synergy and mutual understanding.”

During the harbour phase in Manila, INS Sahyadri will take part in professional exchanges, cross-deck visits and Subject Matter Expert interactions. The schedule also includes cultural activities such as friendly sports events, a joint yoga session and support to a local orphanage.

The visit is part of India’s broader engagement in the region. The Navy stated that the port call “underscores India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Philippines and highlights the growing cooperation between the two navies in the maritime domain,” aligned with India’s Act East Policy and its SAGAR vision.