The second edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) began at Subic Bay in the Philippines on September 28, bringing together the Indian Navy and maritime forces from ASEAN member states. The exercise is being conducted under the theme “Anchored in Trust, United at Sea”.
Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish are participating in the exercise. The opening ceremony was attended by Harsh Kumar Jain, India’s Ambassador to the Philippines, who addressed the participating maritime forces.
The harbour phase includes professional and operational engagements between the participating forces. These include subject matter expert exchanges, sporting and cultural activities, community engagement and operational synchronisation.
The exercise will then move into its sea phase, where the participating maritime forces will conduct coordinated maritime exercises and operational activities. The sea phase is intended to strengthen professional understanding, coordination and interoperability through practical training at sea.
AIME-2026 is the second edition of the ASEAN-India maritime exercise. The first edition was held in Singapore in May 2023. The current exercise is being hosted by the Philippines at Subic Bay.
The exercise forms part of India’s wider maritime engagement with Southeast Asian countries. It also supports the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026 and India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which focuses on security and growth across the region.
The participating forces are expected to use the exercise to exchange operational experience and strengthen coordination at sea. The exercise also provides an opportunity for maritime forces from India and ASEAN countries to work together through structured professional and operational activities.
