New Delhi: To aggressively bolster the nation’s maritime borders and strictly evaluate coastal defence mechanisms, the Indian Navy has officially commenced its nationwide coastal security exercise, ‘Sea Vigil-26’. The large-scale military drill, which began on November 11, marks the fifth edition of the exercise and is scheduled to conclude on November 19.
The comprehensive exercise is strategically divided into two distinct phases. The initial phase, running from November 11 to 17, focuses on rigorously auditing coastal security infrastructure and assessing overall preparedness levels. Following this, an intense operational sea phase will take place on November 18 and 19.
Originally instituted in 2018, the Sea Vigil initiative was specifically designed to test the efficacy of the maritime security measures implemented in the aftermath of the devastating 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The current edition spans India’s entire coastline and the complete Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), ensuring no vulnerabilities are left unchecked.
Crucially, the drill actively incorporates a wide spectrum of stakeholders. Beyond the central command of the Indian Navy, the exercise features heavy participation from the Indian Coast Guard, Coastal Security Police, Customs, and various other maritime security agencies. It also brings together local coastal communities and fishermen across all coastal states and Union Territories, recognizing their vital role as the first line of defence.
Furthermore, several government bodies, including the Ministries of Defence, Home Affairs, Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Petroleum, and Fisheries, are collaborating to ensure the exercise’s seamless execution.
The Indian Navy stated that Sea Vigil-26 also serves as a critical build-up to the Theatre Level Readiness Operational Exercise (TROPEX), the Navy’s major biennial war game. Together, Sea Vigil and TROPEX provide a holistic assessment of India’s maritime security matrix, evaluating the transition from peacetime coastal defence to full-scale wartime operations deep at sea.
By testing the synergy between multiple agencies, Sea Vigil-26 aims to significantly enhance India’s national security, ensuring swift and coordinated responses to any emerging maritime threats.