In a significant display of its commitment to regional security cooperation, the Indian Navy is extending its ship maintenance expertise to several neighboring nations and countries within the Indian Ocean region. At the request of the governments of the Maldives and Mauritius, the Indian Navy is currently undertaking the maintenance and repair of two coast guard vessels: the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee and the Mauritius Coast Guard vessel, MCGS Valiant. These refits are being conducted without charge to the host countries, highlighting India’s dedication to fostering strong diplomatic and defense relationships in the region.
The MCGS Huravee, which was originally commissioned by India in 2016, was ceremonially handed over to the Maldives in 2023. The vessel is now undergoing extensive refitting at the Naval dockyard in Mumbai. This process focuses on crucial repairs and upgrades to bolster its operational capabilities. The decision to proceed with the refit was established during a state visit to India by Maldives President Muizzu in October. The Indian High Commission in the Maldives issued a statement indicating that the refit would incur an estimated cost of over $4 million, which will be covered by the Indian government, underscoring the deep-rooted friendly ties and multifaceted defense cooperation between the two nations.
Simultaneously, the MCGS Valiant, constructed by Goa Shipyard Ltd for the Mauritius Coast Guard in 2017, is undergoing a scheduled four-month refit in Visakhapatnam. This effort is aimed at ensuring that the vessel remains ready for a range of critical missions, including patrolling, anti-piracy operations, and search and rescue efforts.
The Indian Navy’s involvement extends beyond maintenance. In an effort to bolster maritime security capabilities in the region, India recently gifted two Fast Interceptor Crafts (FICs) to Mozambique. Delivered by the Indian Navy ship INS Gharial, these crafts were formally handed over to the Mozambican government by Indian High Commissioner Robert Shetkintong. This aid is particularly significant as it will enhance Mozambique’s ability to combat maritime terrorism and address ongoing insurgencies in the Cabo Delgado province. India had previously gifted two large interceptor boats to Mozambique in 2019, followed by two FICs in January 2022.
Last year marked a notable development in India’s naval cooperation, as the Indian Navy vessel INS Kripan was transferred to the Vietnam Navy. This transfer was historic, being the first instance of an active warship being gifted by India to another country, which reflects the strengthening defense ties between the two nations.
This comprehensive approach, described as “Womb to Tomb” support, aligns with the Indian government’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and its vision for “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR). The Indian Navy continues to play a crucial role in fortifying relationships and promoting security in the Indian Ocean, illustrating India’s commitment to collaborative maritime governance.
