INS Kadmatt Arrives in Fiji to Boost Maritime Ties and Regional Cooperation

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kadmatt, an indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette, arrived in Suva, Fiji, for a goodwill visit as part of her ongoing three-month operational deployment across the Indo-Pacific. The port call highlights the growing maritime partnership between India and Fiji while underscoring India’s broader vision for regional cooperation under the MAHASAGAR initiative (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region).

Strengthening Historical and Cultural Ties

India and Fiji share longstanding bonds rooted in history, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, with a vibrant Indian diaspora forming an enduring link between the two nations. The arrival of INS Kadmatt in Suva reaffirms India’s commitment to deepening these ties, not just on land but also across the vast maritime domain of the Indo-Pacific.

Professional Naval Engagements

During her stay in Suva, INS Kadmatt will host senior officials of the Republic of Fiji Navy to foster professional interactions. The two sides will explore areas of mutual interest, including:

• Maritime domain awareness and information sharing.

• Search and Rescue (SAR) coordination.

• Capacity building and training exchanges.

• Exploration of joint exercises to enhance interoperability.

These engagements are expected to strengthen the operational linkages between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Fiji Navy, creating new avenues for cooperation in regional maritime security.

Community Outreach and Cultural Exchanges

Beyond professional exchanges, the crew of INS Kadmatt will participate in a variety of community outreach programmes, including:

• Sporting events with local youth.

• Social welfare activities and humanitarian engagements.

• Cultural interactions to showcase India’s traditions while embracing Fiji’s heritage.

Such initiatives are designed to foster friendship, goodwill, and mutual respect between the people of both nations.

Showcasing India’s Indigenous Naval Capabilities

INS Kadmatt is part of the Project 28 class of Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvettes, a symbol of India’s growing prowess in indigenous naval shipbuilding. Equipped with advanced sonar systems, stealth features, and cutting-edge weaponry, the vessel demonstrates India’s ability to contribute to regional maritime security and stability.

By deploying Kadmatt on extended overseas missions, the Indian Navy showcases not only its blue-water capabilities but also its readiness to act as a reliable security partner for friendly foreign nations.

Alignment with MAHASAGAR Vision

The visit forms part of India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which emphasizes mutual growth, shared security, and collective prosperity across the Indian Ocean Region and beyond. It reflects India’s evolving role as a net security provider, promoting cooperative engagement to counter shared challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, climate change, and natural disasters.

“The port call by INS Kadmatt is more than a naval visit; it is a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to work with Fiji and other partners in building a secure, prosperous, and sustainable maritime region,” a senior Indian Navy official said.

A Step Toward Stronger Indo-Pacific Cooperation

India’s growing naval engagements with Pacific Island nations, including Fiji, are part of a larger Indo-Pacific strategy that seeks to enhance connectivity, foster resilience, and build partnerships rooted in respect and inclusivity.

With this visit, India and Fiji are expected to further expand cooperation in maritime security, disaster relief, and sustainable ocean development, strengthening their partnership in the Indo-Pacific and contributing to a safer maritime environment for all.