The Indian Navy’s offshore patrol vessel INS Sunayna arrived at Malé as part of its deployment under the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative. This marks the first port call of its operational mission, reinforcing maritime cooperation between India and the Maldives. The vessel was earlier flagged off from Mumbai for deployment to the South East Indian Ocean Region.
IOS SAGAR Initiative
- IOS SAGAR involves a multinational crew from 16 Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs)
- Aligned with India’s:
- Neighbourhood First Policy
- MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions)
- Guided by the principle: “One Ocean, One Mission”
Objectives of Deployment
- Enhance regional maritime security and cooperation
- Promote capacity building among partner nations
- Strengthen interoperability and joint operational readiness
- Deepen India’s engagement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
Onboard Training & Exercises
During transit, multinational crew undertook:
- Seamanship drills
- Small arms firing
- Damage control operations
These exercises aim to improve:
- Operational coordination
- Collective readiness
- Maritime collaboration
About INS Sunayna
- Class: Saryu-class Offshore Patrol Vessel
- Built by: Goa Shipyard Limited
- Commissioned: 15 October 2013 at Kochi
- Based under: Southern Naval Command
Functions
- Coastal and offshore patrolling
- Ocean surveillance
- Monitoring Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs)
- Escort and fleet support operations
Key Features
Propulsion & Systems
- Powered by two diesel engines
- Speed: Over 25 knots
- Equipped with advanced navigation, communication, and electronic systems
Armament Fit Includes:
- 76 mm main gun with electro-optic fire control system
- Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS)
- CHAFF launchers
- Capability to carry a helicopter