Indian Navy guided missile frigate INS Trishul strengthened maritime cooperation between India and Egypt during its port call at Alexandria from September 14 to 17, 2026. The visit focused on enhancing naval cooperation, professional exchanges and interoperability between the two countries.
Before entering Alexandria Harbour, INS Trishul conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Egyptian Navy ship ENS Bernees. The exercise involved coordinated manoeuvring drills, communication exercises and approaches for replenishment at sea. Such activities allow naval personnel from both countries to practice operating together and improve coordination during maritime operations.
The PASSEX provided an opportunity for the Indian and Egyptian navies to exchange operational experience and understand each other’s procedures. These engagements are particularly useful for improving interoperability, which refers to the ability of forces from different countries to coordinate effectively during joint maritime activities.
INS Trishul received a warm welcome as it arrived at Alexandria. Egyptian Naval Ship Al Qadeer escorted the Indian warship into Alexandria Harbour, reflecting the close naval engagement between the two countries. During the port visit, Indian Ambassador to Egypt Suresh K Reddy visited INS Trishul and interacted with the ship’s crew.
The visit also included a commemorative engagement at the Chatby War Memorial, where the Commanding Officer and crew of INS Trishul paid homage to Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the two World Wars. The memorial contains 12 burials and commemorates 19 Indian soldiers who died aboard ships that were sunk in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Beyond the ceremonial activities, the port call provided an opportunity for Indian and Egyptian naval personnel to interact through professional and social engagements. Such exchanges contribute to building mutual understanding and strengthening long-term relations between the two maritime forces.
The Indian Navy’s engagement with the Egyptian Navy reflects the continuing defence and maritime cooperation between India and Egypt. The PASSEX and Alexandria port visit also demonstrate the Indian Navy’s ongoing overseas engagements and its efforts to maintain professional relationships with friendly foreign navies.
Overall, INS Trishul’s visit to Alexandria highlighted the importance of regular naval interactions between India and Egypt. The exercise and port engagement helped both sides enhance operational familiarity, exchange professional knowledge and further strengthen maritime cooperation in the region.