INS Sagardhwani, the Indian Navy’s oceanographic research vessel, concluded a successful visit to Cam Ranh, Vietnam from 04-08 May 2026, reinforcing the strong maritime and scientific partnership between India and Vietnam.
During the visit, Commanding Officer, INS Sagardhwani called on Sr Col Tran Van Cuong, Deputy Head of Khanh Hoa Military Command and Sr Capt Nguyen Huu Minh, Deputy Political Commissar Naval Region 4. Discussions highlighted avenues for deeper maritime engagement, professional interactions, training cooperation and scientific endeavours coinciding with a decade of India-Vietnam Strategic Partnership. Recently, a Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) ship participated in International Fleet Review 26 and MILAN 26 at Visakhapatnam in Feb 2026.
As part of the professional exchange, the Commanding Officer interacted with Sr Capt Ho Thanh Hoa, Deputy Director of the Naval Academy, Vietnam. Deliberations focused on expanding cooperation in naval training and education. Officers and cadets of the Academy also visited the ship and gained insights into its operational role and onboard capabilities.
Reflecting the spirit of friendship and camaraderie, personnel of the Indian Navy and Vietnam People’s Navy participated in friendly volleyball matches and joint yoga sessions during the harbour stay.
Strengthening collaboration in oceanographic studies, scientists from NPOL (Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory), DRDO engaged with researchers from the Institute of Oceanography, Nha Trang. The interactions centred on research collaboration, knowledge sharing and capacity building in the field of oceanographic science and technology. Scientists from the National Oceanographic Institute also visited the ship during the port call.
The visit marks a testament to the growing bilateral maritime partnership and scientific engagement between the two countries in the region.
