India and Seychelles have launched the 11th edition of the joint military exercise “LAMITIYE-2026”, aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and operational coordination between the two nations. The exercise highlights India’s growing strategic engagement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Exercise LAMITIYE-2026: Key Overview
The joint military exercise LAMITIYE-2026 is being conducted at the Seychelles Defence Academy from 9 to 20 March 2026. It brings together personnel from the Indian Armed Forces and Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) to improve interoperability and joint operational capabilities.
Tri-Service Participation by India
A major highlight of this edition is the participation of a tri-service contingent of the Indian Armed Forces. The contingent includes personnel from the Assam Regiment, along with support from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force.
The Indian Navy has deployed INS Trikand, while the Indian Air Force is supporting the exercise with a C-130 transport aircraft, demonstrating joint operational integration.
Meaning and History of the Exercise
The term “Lamitiye” means “Friendship” in Creole, reflecting the close diplomatic and military ties between India and Seychelles.
The exercise is a biennial training event that has been conducted since 2001, making it one of the long-standing defence engagements between the two countries.
Focus Areas of Training
The exercise focuses on improving synergy in sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments and enhancing cooperation during peacekeeping missions.
Troops from both countries jointly train, plan and execute tactical drills to neutralise potential threats, while also showcasing the use of new-generation military equipment and technologies.
Key Activities During the Exercise
The 12-day training programme includes several operational activities designed to improve combat readiness and joint planning.
Major activities include:
Field Training Exercises (FTX),
Combat discussions and case studies,
Lectures and demonstrations, and
Joint tactical planning drills
The exercise will conclude with a two-day validation phase, assessing the operational coordination achieved by both forces.
Strategic Significance for India
Exercise LAMITIYE strengthens India-Seychelles defence relations and promotes the exchange of skills, operational experience and best practices between the two militaries.
It also reflects India’s commitment to maintaining maritime security and regional stability in the Indian Ocean Region, which is crucial for global trade routes and strategic cooperation.
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