IOS SAGAR DEPARTS CHATTOGRAM AFTER SUCCESSFUL PORT CALL IN BANGLADESH

Indian Navy's INS Sunayna, deployed under the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative, departed Chattogram, Bangladesh, on 10 May 2026 after a successful port call marked by professional engagements, maritime cooperation, and cultural exchanges with the Bangladesh Navy (BN). The ship is presently enroute to Colombo, Sri Lanka. The departure was marked by a ceremonial send-off by the Bangladesh Navy.

During the visit, the Commanding Officer of IOS Sagar called on senior Bangladesh Navy officials, including Commander BN Fleet (COMBAN) and Commander Chattogram Naval Area (COMCHIT), to further strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation and regional maritime objectives. A deck reception hosted onboard the ship brought together senior leadership of the Bangladesh Navy, while the visiting crew also attended a reception hosted by the BN.

Professional interactions included cross-deck visits and exchanges of Best Practices between personnel of both Navies. The crew of IOS Sagar also visited the Bangladesh Naval Academy and interacted with officer cadets and faculty members. Friendly sporting activities and cultural engagements further enhanced mutual understanding and camaraderie between the two Navies.

On departure from Chittagong, IOS Sagar participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with BNS Protoy and Bangladesh Navy air assets. The exercise included coordinated maritime drills and advanced surface manoeuvres aimed at enhancing interoperability and operational cooperation between the two Navies.

The visit and subsequent PASSEX underscore the shared commitment of India and Bangladesh towards ensuring peace, stability, and security in the Indian Ocean Region. With personnel from 16 partner nations embarked onboard, IOS Sagar continues its operational deployment in the region with its next port of call at Colombo, Sri Lanka.

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VM/SPS 96/26