Context
India and the United Kingdom have launched their first-ever joint Carrier Strike Group (CSG) exercise, Konkan-25, marking a historic milestone in bilateral maritime cooperation. Conducted in the Arabian Sea off India’s western coast (October 6–12, 2025), the exercise showcases growing naval interoperability and shared strategic interests in maintaining a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.
Key Highlights
- First Joint CSG Exercise:
Konkan-25 brings together India’s INS Vikrant and the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales, both flagship aircraft carriers, for the first coordinated deployment of two CSGs. - Multi-Nation Participation:
The exercise also includes the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force’s JS Akebono and Royal Norwegian Navy’s HNoMS Roald Amundsen, expanding the drills’ multilateral scope. - Operational Scope:
Key components include anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, fighter operations, and complex maritime manoeuvres.- INS Vikrant operates MiG-29K fighters.
- HMS Prince of Wales fields F-35B stealth multirole aircraft.
- Two-Phase Format:
- Sea Phase: Intensive combat simulations, coordinated strike missions, and deck interoperability.
- Harbour Phase: Professional exchanges, cross-training, and cultural engagements between Indian and British naval personnel.
- Diplomatic Message:
The exercise embodies the India–UK Vision 2035, which aims to deepen cooperation in defence, technology, and global governance based on a rules-based international order.