India–Seychelles Military Ties Deepen with Joint Exercise “LAMITIYE–2026”

An Indian Armed Forces contingent has arrived in Seychelles to participate in the 11th edition of the Joint Military Exercise “LAMITIYE–2026”, conducted in collaboration with the Seychelles Defence Forces. The exercise is scheduled to take place at the Seychelles Defence Academy from 9 to 20 March 2026.

The word “Lamitiye,” meaning “Friendship” in the Creole language, aptly reflects the spirit of cooperation that underpins this long-standing defence partnership. The biennial exercise has been hosted in Seychelles since 2001, serving as a key platform for strengthening military cooperation and operational understanding between the two countries.

This year’s edition marks a notable milestone with the participation of all three services of the Indian Armed Forces—the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Indian contingent includes personnel from the Assam Regiment, alongside elements of the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. Naval participation includes the deployment of the stealth frigate INS Trikand, while the Air Force has contributed a Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to support the exercise.

The joint training initiative aims to enhance synergy in sub-conventional operations within semi-urban environments, a domain increasingly relevant to contemporary security challenges. Another key objective is to improve interoperability and coordination between the armed forces of both nations, particularly in the context of Peacekeeping Operations.

Over the course of the 12-day exercise, Indian and Seychellois troops will engage in a range of collaborative activities including field training exercises, tactical discussions, case studies, lectures, and demonstrations. The participating forces will also train together in planning and executing tactical drills aimed at neutralising potential threats in semi-urban operational settings, while integrating new-generation military equipment and emerging technologies into their operational framework.

The exercise will culminate in a two-day Validation Exercise, designed to test the operational concepts and skills developed during the training phase.

Beyond the immediate tactical objectives, Exercise Lamitiye–2026 represents an important step in strengthening defence cooperation between India and Seychelles. By fostering deeper mutual understanding and shared operational practices, the exercise reinforces the broader strategic partnership between the two nations while enhancing the joint capabilities of their armed forces.

Source: PIB