Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish Arrive at Subic Bay in the Philippines for ADMM-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity

KOCHI: As part of the Indian Navy’s ongoing operational deployment to the Indo-Pacific region, Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish arrived at Subic Bay in the Philippines on September 20, 2026, to participate in the prestigious ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity (JCA). The multilateral exercise brings together naval forces from ASEAN Member States alongside eight Plus dialogue partners for comprehensive professional exchanges and operational drills designed to enhance tactical interoperability, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen collective maritime security across shared waters. INS Sahyadri, an indigenously built stealth frigate, and INS Kulish, a guided-missile corvette, represent the Indian Navy’s advanced surface combatant capabilities on this international platform. The participation directly aligns with the Government of India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and the overarching vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), underscoring India’s steadfast commitment to multilateral maritime governance, constructive regional engagement, and rules-based maritime order. Furthermore, the strategic port call highlights the accelerating momentum of bilateral defense ties between India and the Philippines following the formal establishment of the India–Philippines Strategic Partnership in August 2025. During their stay at Subic Bay, the personnel of both navies will participate in subject matter expert exchanges, cross-deck visits, operational planning sessions, and joint maritime training maneuvers aimed at addressing shared security challenges and ensuring peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific.