IMNEX-26: 8th India-Myanmar Naval Exercise Begins at Visakhapatnam

The 8th edition of the India–Myanmar Naval Exercise (IMNEX-26) is conducted at the Visakhapatnam from 10 to 14 November 2026. The bilateral exercise involves the Indian Navy ships INS Rana and INS Sumedha, along with Myanmar Navy Ship UMS King Sin Phyu Shin. The exercise aims to strengthen maritime cooperation, improve mutual understanding and enhance operational coordination between the two neighbouring countries.

Key Details of IMNEX-26

• Exercise: India-Myanmar Naval Exercise (IMNEX-26)
• Edition: 8th
• Participating countries: India and Myanmar
• Venue: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• Dates: 10–14 November 2026
• Indian Navy ships: INS Rana and INS Sumedha
• Myanmar Navy ship: UMS King Sin Phyu Shin
• Opening ceremony: 10 November 2026
• Host service: Indian Navy

Participating Naval Ships

Three naval vessels are participating in the exercise:

• INS Rana: An Indian Navy guided-missile destroyer.
• INS Sumedha: An Indian Navy offshore patrol vessel.
• UMS King Sin Phyu Shin: A Myanmar Navy ship that arrived at the Visakhapatnam on 10th of November 2026.

The opening ceremony was held onboard INS Rana on 10 November 2026 and marked the commencement of the bilateral exercise.

Two Phases of IMNEX-26

The exercise is divided into two phases: the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase.

1. Harbour Phase

The Harbour Phase focuses on professional interaction and knowledge exchange between the participating navies. Its activities include,

• Professional interactions and discussions on operational matters.
• Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs).
• Cross-deck visits between participating ships.
• Sporting engagements.
• Exchange of professional expertise and operational knowledge.

2. Sea Phase

The Sea Phase focuses on practical maritime cooperation and operational coordination. It includes,

• Coordinated maritime operations.
• Tactical manoeuvres.
• Joint naval exercises.
• Activities to improve interoperability between participating naval units.

Significance of IMNEX-26

IMNEX-26 provides a platform for India and Myanmar to strengthen their maritime partnership through professional exchanges and coordinated naval activities.

The exercise is expected to improve mutual understanding, develop operational synergy and enhance the ability of both navies to work together. It also reflects their shared commitment to maintaining a secure and stable maritime environment in the region.

The exercise is aligned with India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The vision emphasises cooperation with maritime partners and regional countries.