The US Navy and Indian Navy executed a week-long joint anti-submarine warfare exercise from October 22 to 28 near Diego Garcia and across the Indian Ocean, deploying a US P-8A Poseidon and an Indian P-8I aircraft under Commander, Task Force 72. The drills focused on sharpening interoperability in anti-submarine operations and maritime domain awareness, building on prior collaborations like Tiger Triumph 2025 that integrated satellite and unmanned systems for enhanced communication and readiness. This bilateral detachment underscores the deepening strategic alignment between the two democracies in countering underwater threats and securing vital sea lanes.

Capt. Rodney Erler, Commodore of CTF 72, praised the partnership, stating that US crews were honored to operate alongside Indian counterparts. He highlighted the global P-8 network’s role in detecting traditional and non-traditional threats to regional stability. The exercise commenced with the P-8I’s arrival at Diego Garcia, where crews conducted joint operational planning and information-sharing sessions. The shore phase transitioned into coordinated flights featuring anti-submarine maneuvers and advanced communication drills at sea.

The US 7th Fleet emphasized that the India-US partnership rests on shared democratic values and a mutual commitment to security, freedom, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Patrol Squadron 4, the maritime patrol and reconnaissance hub within CTF 72, routinely partners with regional allies to bolster surveillance and maintain an open maritime environment. These exercises reinforce collective vigilance against evolving submarine challenges in strategically critical waters.

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This latest engagement signals growing tactical synergy between the US and Indian navies, with the P-8 platform serving as a cornerstone for real-time intelligence and rapid response capabilities. By honing joint procedures, both forces enhance their ability to safeguard shipping routes and deter adversarial submarine activity, contributing to a rules-based order across the Indo-Pacific theater.

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