In a historic first for Indo-EU defence ties, two European naval warships, Spain’s ESPS Reina Sofia and Italy’s ITS Antonio Marceglia, arrived in Mumbai on May 26. This marked the first-ever visit of EU Navy vessels to India. The ships, part of EUNAVFOR’s Operation Atalanta, stayed docked at Mumbai Port until June 1. They then set sail for the Arabian Sea to join the Indian Navy in a high-level joint maritime exercise running from June 1 to 3.

The visit follows strategic talks between the Indian Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, reinforcing shared goals of maritime security in the Indian Ocean. Focus areas include countering piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing while ensuring safe trade routes.

Rear Admiral Davide Da Pozzo, EUNAVFOR’s Force Commander, met with Indian Navy officials to discuss tactical coordination and future collaborations. The crews also conducted expert exchanges and simulated drills to enhance interoperability.

The joint exercise, scheduled for June 1-3, will test advanced anti-piracy manoeuvres, communication protocols, and tactical responses. EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin called the visit a “granular step” in operational partnership, highlighting mutual recognition as key maritime security providers.

This collaboration builds on the 2025 India-EU Maritime Security Dialogue and signals deeper defence ties, setting the stage for expanded Indo-Pacific co-operation under international maritime law.

With inputs from PIB