An I For An I Bolsters Naval Ties! INS Surat Steams Ahead In Passage Exercise With Italy’s Caio Duilio
The exercise included tactical manoeuvres, aircraft tracking, seamanship evolutions, communication drills. Image courtesy: Indian Navy
INS Surat, the Indian Navy’s latest indigenous guided missile destroyer, is already proving its mettle on the high seas. On Sunday, (September 7, 2025), it conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) in the north Arabian Sea with ITS Caio Duilio, an Andrea Doria Class destroyer of the Italian Navy.
For the Indian Navy, it marked another milestone in showcasing the operational readiness of its most advanced frontline warship. INS Surat is the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project and is counted amongst the world’s largest and most sophisticated destroyers.
India-Italy PASSEX: What did the navies practice during the naval exercise?
The PASSEX was more than a ceremonial engagement as it tested real-world naval skills. The Indian and Italian Navy ships carried out tactical manoeuvres, aircraft tracking, seamanship drills, communication exercises, and even flying operations that included cross-deck landings.
The naval drill ended with a ceremonial steampast, reinforcing tradition alongside modern capability.
India-Italy’s naval exercise: Why this engagement matters?
Such exercises serve a dual purpose. One, sharpening operational coordination and building trust. By exchanging best practices and training together in complex manoeuvres, the Indian and Italian navies strengthened their ability to operate side by side in maritime missions which is an essential capability in today’s unpredictable security environment.
It was held under the command of the Force Commander of Operation ASPIDES, Rear Admiral Andrea Quondamatteo, was carried out, for the first time, in close coordination between the Indian Navy and European Union forces. The naval exercise reinforced professional naval ties, along with demonstrating a shared commitment to maritime security in strategically important waters.
How does this shape India-Italy defence relations?
The exercise is a signal of intent. With Italy positioning itself more actively in the Indo-Pacific, India’s naval outreach adds strategic depth to the bilateral partnership. Beyond symbolism, it reflects New Delhi’s commitment to working with European partners to ensure maritime stability in the Indian Ocean and beyond.
