New Delhi: India-Bangladesh naval forces concluded a coordinated patrol in the Bay of Bengal this week amid strained diplomatic ties. The patrol was a part of the 2025 edition of the Bongosagar exercise.
The annual exercise aimed to enhance the interoperability of the two forces, ensuring they can better address shared maritime security challenges, the Indian Navy said in a statement.
Held since 2019, the Bongosagar exercise, this time, came months after Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, in January this year, highlighted the strategic significance of India-Bangladesh ties. The collaboration marks a significant advancement in maritime cooperation between the two nations since the ouster of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year strained relations.
The Indian Navy statement on the exercise said: “The enhanced synergy of naval operations between the two navies is the testament to the shared commitment of countering global security challenges towards security and stability in the region promoting Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative of India.”
The Bongosagar exercise saw the participation of the Indian Navy’s INS Ranvir and Bangladesh Navy’s BNS Abu Ubaidah this year. With a range of operations, including surface firing, tactical manoeuvres, underway replenishment, and Visit-Board-Search-Seizure (VBSS) cross-boarding, the exercise covered a broad spectrum of naval operations.
The exercise also featured communication drills, which tested the forces’ readiness, and a unique quiz on professional topics provided an engaging way for operational teams and junior officers to enhance their maritime knowledge. It culminated in a symbolic steam past, reflecting the deepening ties between the two naval forces.
Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, in his first press briefing after assuming office, said in January, “India is strategically important to Bangladesh, and vice versa. As neighbours, we must understand each other and avoid animosity, as it is not in either nation’s interest.”
On the postponement of joint exercises due to the ongoing strains between the two nations, the Army Chief stressed at the time, “Once the situation improves, the exercise will proceed as planned.” Then, he added, “As of now, the relationship with the military is well and perfect.”
The now-completed Bongosagar exercise has improved coordination between the two forces and their ability to conduct seamless maritime operations, particularly when addressing shared security concerns or emerging threats at sea, the Indian Navy stated.
The exercise came after rising concerns over the first joint training between the Chinese and Bangladeshi armies in May 2024. At the time, the People’s Liberation Army conducted drills at the Bangabandhu Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center near Dhaka.
Pakistan has also come into the picture, with Bangladesh’s previously strained relationship with Pakistan beginning to improve. In November and December last year, two cargo ships carrying goods docked at Chittagong port, marking the first such arrivals since the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
Bangladesh’s political and diplomatic landscape has shifted following the ouster of the Hasina-led Awami League government after 15 years in power. Hasina, a close ally of India, is now in exile. This has resulted in weakened Bangladesh-India ties.
(Edited by Madhurita Goswami)
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