Indian Navy stealth frigate INS Sahyadri reached Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan on November 4 to take part in Exercise Malabar 2026, the Navy said.
The indigenously built guided-missile frigate, part of the Eastern Fleet, was received by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Vice Admiral Yagi Koji, Commandant of the Yokosuka District, and R Madhu Sudan, Deputy Chief of the Indian Mission in Japan, were among those present at the welcome ceremony.
Four navies, two phases
This year’s Malabar brings together the navies of India, Japan, the United States and Australia. The Navy said the exercise is meant to improve operational coordination and interoperability among the participants and to let them share professional expertise.
It will begin with a harbour phase of professional exchanges and joint planning. A sea phase will follow, with Sahyadri operating alongside ships from the US, Australia and Japan.
Message on the Indo-Pacific
The Navy said the engagements would build mutual trust and contribute to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific. It described Sahyadri’s participation as a reflection of its commitment to maritime partnerships with like-minded navies.
It tied the deployment to MAHASAGAR, the government’s outreach vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
The Navy also said the reception reflects the strategic partnership and growing maritime cooperation between India and Japan.
