INS Trishul Concludes Greece Port Visit 2026: Strengthens India–Greece Naval Cooperation

Why in the News?

The Indian Navy's frontline stealth frigate INS Trishul successfully concluded its port call at Souda Bay, Greece, on 3 November 2026, as part of its operational deployment to the Mediterranean Sea.

The visit aimed to strengthen India–Greece naval cooperation, enhance maritime security coordination and improve interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Hellenic Navy.

Following the port visit, INS Trishul participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Hellenic Navy warship HS Limnos (F451).

Key Highlights of the Port Visit

INS Trishul arrived at Souda Bay on 31 October 2026 and concluded its port call on 3 November 2026, during its operational deployment to the Mediterranean Sea.

During the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Trishul interacted with senior officials of the Hellenic Navy, the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Centre (NMIOTC) and the US Naval Support Activity at Souda Bay.

The visit included professional discussions, cross-deck visits, operational exchanges and cultural activities aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation.

Passage Exercise with the Hellenic Navy

After departing Souda Bay, INS Trishul conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Hellenic Navy warship HS Limnos (F451).

The exercise included:

• Coordinated Naval Manoeuvres: Improving coordination between the two warships.

• Replenishment Approach Drills: Practising procedures used during at-sea replenishment.

• Cross-Deck Helicopter Landing: Enhancing aviation cooperation between the navies.

• Communication Drills: Strengthening communication and operational interoperability.

These activities helped improve coordination and mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the Hellenic Navy.

Importance of the Visit

India–Greece Defence Relations: The port call strengthened bilateral naval cooperation and professional engagement.

Maritime Security: The visit supported cooperation in maintaining maritime security in the Mediterranean region.

Operational Interoperability: Joint naval activities improved coordination between the two countries' naval forces.

Naval Diplomacy: The deployment demonstrated India's continued maritime engagement with friendly countries.

Important Facts for Competitive Exams

INS Trishul is a guided-missile stealth frigate of the Indian Navy. It concluded its port visit to Souda Bay, Greece, on 3 November 2026.

Souda Bay is located on the island of Crete in Greece, in the Mediterranean region.

Following the visit, INS Trishul conducted a PASSEX with HS Limnos (F451) of the Hellenic Navy. The exercise focused on naval manoeuvres, communication procedures and helicopter operations.

The visit highlights India's growing maritime cooperation with Greece and its continued naval presence in the Mediterranean Sea.

Conclusion

The successful port call of INS Trishul at Souda Bay, Greece, reflects the strengthening of India–Greece naval relations. The subsequent passage exercise demonstrated both navies' commitment to improving maritime coordination and operational interoperability.