Visakhapatnam, November 11, 2026: The eighth edition of the India–Myanmar Naval Exercise (IMNEX-26) has commenced at Visakhapatnam, bringing together warships and naval personnel from both countries to strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation and operational interoperability.
The exercise is being conducted from November 10 to 14, 2026, with the participation of the Myanmar Navy’s UMS King Sin Phyu Shin alongside Indian Navy warships INS Rana and INS Sumedha.
The Myanmar Navy ship arrived at Visakhapatnam on November 10, marking the beginning of the bilateral naval engagement. The opening ceremony was held onboard INS Rana on the same day, formally commencing the eighth edition of the exercise.
IMNEX-26 provides an important platform for the Indian Navy and Myanmar Navy to exchange professional expertise, strengthen mutual understanding and enhance operational coordination between the two maritime forces.
The exercise is structured into two phases, comprising harbour-based engagements followed by operational activities at sea.
During the Harbour Phase, personnel from both navies will participate in professional interactions, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), cross-deck visits, sporting activities and discussions on various operational matters. These engagements are intended to promote knowledge sharing, build professional relationships and improve coordination between the participating naval units.
The subsequent Sea Phase will feature coordinated maritime operations, tactical manoeuvres and other naval exercises designed to enhance interoperability and operational synergy.
Through these activities, both navies will have the opportunity to improve their ability to operate together in maritime environments and strengthen their understanding of each other’s operational procedures.
The exercise also highlights the longstanding friendship and maritime partnership between India and Myanmar, two neighbouring countries with shared interests in maintaining security and stability in the region.
IMNEX-26 aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The initiative emphasises maritime cooperation, regional security and collaborative development among partner nations.
The bilateral exercise reflects the commitment of both navies to strengthening professional engagement, promoting maritime security and contributing to a secure and stable regional maritime environment.
With INS Rana, INS Sumedha and UMS King Sin Phyu Shin participating, IMNEX-26 represents another step towards deepening naval cooperation and reinforcing maritime ties between India and Myanmar.
