INDIAN OCEAN SHIP SAGAR ARRIVES AT CHANGI NAVAL BASE, SINGAPORE

Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, INS Sunayna, arrived at Changi Naval Base, Singapore, on 26 Apr 2026, marking her fourth port call during the ongoing IOS SAGAR deployment under the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

The ship, with a multinational crew from 16 Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs), is deployed to the Indian Ocean Region and has completed port calls at Malé, Phuket, and Jakarta prior to arrival at Singapore.

At Singapore, the ship received a warm welcome, reaffirming strong India-Singapore maritime ties. HE Dr Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India to Singapore, interacted with the crew onboard ship, appreciating their role in strengthening maritime partnerships and fostering interoperability under the SAGAR vision. Cdr Siddharth Chaudhary, Commanding Officer, INS Sunayna, laid a wreath at the Kranji War Memorial and called on Col Chuah Meng Soon, Commander, 9th Flotilla, Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), to discuss avenues for enhanced maritime cooperation.

During the visit, the ship has been open to visitors, including schoolchildren and social media influencers, offering a first-hand experience of life at sea. On 27 Apr 2026, the IOS SAGAR crew, along with members of the Indian diaspora participated in a run themed 'One Ocean, One Mission', promoting maritime awareness and unity.

The ship is also engaging with the RSN through a series of professional and community interactions. Forthcoming activities include visits of IOS Sagar crew to RSN's Navigation and Damage Control simulators, Information Fusion Centre and the Navy Museum in Singapore, promoting exchange of Best Practices and enhancing regional maritime awareness. In addition, interaction with personnel from a think tank onboard IOS Sagar, a joint Yoga session, and a formal deck reception will further strengthen engagement with stakeholders.

INS Sunayna is scheduled to depart Singapore on 29 Apr 2026, continuing her mission of strengthening maritime cooperation and promoting collective security in the Indian Ocean Region.

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VM/SPS