INS Savitri Arrives in Mozambique – Strengthening Bilateral Maritime Cooperation

IN NEWS: INS Savitri Arrives in Mozambique – Strengthening Bilateral Maritime Cooperation

Analysis

1. Event Overview:
   • INS Savitri, an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Indian Navy, arrived at Port Beira, Mozambique, as part of its operational deployment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
   • The visit underscores India’s growing maritime engagement and reflects the long-standing friendship and cooperation between India and Mozambique.
2. Diplomatic and Strategic Significance:
   • The ceremonial reception by the Mozambique Navy signifies strong bilateral relations in the maritime domain.
   • The deployment is part of India’s ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’ vision, aimed at strengthening regional maritime security and partnership.
   • It reinforces India’s role as a Preferred Security Partner in the IOR.
3. Professional and Operational Engagements:
   • Joint training sessions will include:
     • Navigational discussions and EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) surveillance techniques.
     • Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills.
     • Damage control and firefighting exercises.
   • These activities enhance interoperability, operational understanding, and preparedness for future joint missions.
4. Community Outreach and Cultural Diplomacy:
   • The ship will be open to visitors, promoting awareness of the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities and maritime heritage.
   • A medical camp will be organised for the local population, strengthening humanitarian ties and goodwill.
   • Joint Yoga sessions and Futsal matches are planned to foster cultural exchange and camaraderie between the two navies.
5. India–Mozambique Maritime Ties:
   • The visit builds upon previous naval interactions, training programs, and capacity-building efforts between the two nations.
   • Mozambique, located strategically along the Mozambique Channel, plays a vital role in India’s western IOR outreach and anti-piracy operations.

Static Part (For UPSC Context)

• INS Savitri (P51):
  • An Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) commissioned into the Indian Navy, used primarily for maritime surveillance, anti-smuggling, and humanitarian assistance.
• Indian Ocean Region (IOR):
  • A critical maritime zone for global trade and energy routes, central to India’s strategic and security interests.
• India’s Maritime Diplomacy:
  • Guided by the SAGAR Doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region) announced in 2015.
  • Focuses on collaboration with littoral states to ensure peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.
• Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS):
  • A naval operation used to combat piracy, smuggling, and other illicit maritime activities.
• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ):
  • Extends up to 200 nautical miles from a country’s coastline, granting rights to explore and utilize marine resources.

Updated – 10 Nov 2025 ; 07:30 PM | PIB