India-Greece Conduct PASSEX to Boost Naval Cooperation

Indian Navy and the Greek Navy (Hellenic Navy) carried out a joint PASSEX (Passing Exercise) near Mumbai in the Arabian Sea. This exercise shows growing defence cooperation between the two countries and helps improve their naval coordination and teamwork.

Strengthening India-Greece Defence Ties

The PASSEX between India and Greece is part of a broader push to improve military relations. In 2023, India and Greece upgraded their relationship to a Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Greece. Since then, both countries have increased cooperation in defence, with their air forces also joining international air drills in 2024 and 2025.

INS Tarkash and HS Psara Lead the Exercise

The INS Tarkash, a stealth warship of the Indian Navy’s Western Command, led the Indian side of the drill. It was joined by the Greek warship HS Psara. Together, the two navies performed,

• Tactical movements
• Surface firing drills
• Cross-deck helicopter landings
• Replenishment at sea
• Communication and firefighting training

These activities helped both navies share best practices and boost their teamwork at sea.

About INS Tarkash

INS Tarkash is a Talwar-class stealth frigate, built in Russia and added to the Indian Navy in November 2012. The ship is equipped with,

• BrahMos supersonic missiles
• Anti-submarine rockets
• A multi-role helicopter

It is used for many types of operations—ranging from full-scale combat missions to low-intensity maritime patrols and disaster management.