Three frontline warships of the Indian Navy's Eastern Fleet—INS Udaygiri, INS Kavaratti, and INS Shakti—have arrived at Changi Naval Base in Singapore as part of India's operational deployment to Southeast Asia. The visit reflects New Delhi's commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships in the Indo-Pacific and deepening defence cooperation with Singapore.

The deployment is being led by Rear Admiral Alok Ananda, Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Fleet (FOCEF). The ships reached Singapore on July 1, 2026, after completing a successful port call and maritime engagement in Thailand. The visit is being conducted in line with India's Act East Policy, the MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, and the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026.

During their stay in Singapore, personnel from the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy will participate in a series of professional interactions aimed at enhancing interoperability and strengthening naval cooperation. These activities include cross-deck visits, operational discussions, expert exchanges, and engagements on regional maritime security challenges. The programme is designed to improve coordination between the two navies while reinforcing their long-standing strategic partnership.

The visit also highlights the growing defence relationship between India and Singapore, which has expanded significantly over the years through bilateral naval exercises, military training, and defence dialogues. Both countries share a common interest in ensuring a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region where maritime trade and navigation remain secure.

INS Udaygiri, one of India's latest indigenous stealth frigates, represents the country's advanced warship-building capabilities. INS Kavaratti, an anti-submarine warfare corvette, strengthens the fleet's underwater combat capabilities, while INS Shakti serves as the fleet replenishment tanker, providing fuel, supplies, and logistical support during extended deployments. Together, the three vessels demonstrate the Indian Navy's operational readiness and ability to sustain long-range maritime missions.

The Singapore port call follows the Eastern Fleet's recent visit to Sattahip, Thailand, where the ships participated in bilateral engagements and conducted a PASSEX (Passing Exercise) with the Royal Thai Navy. Such exercises improve tactical coordination, communication procedures, and operational compatibility between friendly navies operating in the region.

India has steadily increased its maritime engagement with Southeast Asian countries as part of its broader Indo-Pacific strategy. Regular deployments by the Eastern Fleet allow the Indian Navy to enhance cooperation with regional partners, promote maritime security, support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations when required, and contribute to regional stability.

The arrival of INS Udaygiri, INS Kavaratti, and INS Shakti in Singapore underscores India's continued commitment to strengthening defence diplomacy and expanding strategic partnerships across Southeast Asia. As ASEAN and India celebrate the Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026, the deployment serves as another important step toward building closer naval ties, improving interoperability, and ensuring peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.