INAUGURAL BIMSTEC MARITIME SECURITY EXERCISE
Posted On: 31 OCT 2026 3:38PM by PIB Delhi
Translating Vision to Action
Shared Seas, Shared Security and Shared Prosperity
The inaugural BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise, being conducted from 30 Oct to 03
Nov 2026, marks a significant milestone in advancing maritime cooperation among the
member states of BIMSTEC. Bringing together Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar,
Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand, the exercise reinforces the shared commitment of member
states towards regional security, stability and prosperity in the Bay of Bengal.
Building upon the outcomes of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit under the theme “BIMSTEC:
Prosperous, Resilient and Open”, the exercise provides a practical framework for
enhancing maritime cooperation and operational linkages among participating nations. It
reflects BIMSTEC’s collective resolve towards “Translating Vision to Action” by advancing
cooperation in areas of mutual maritime interest and strengthening regional security
mechanisms.
The Bay of Bengal remains a critical maritime space connecting South and South-East
Asia and supporting trade, connectivity, energy security and economic growth. The
exercise aims to enhance interoperability, strengthen maritime domain awareness,
improve coordination mechanisms and promote the exchange of Best Practices among
BIMSTEC member states.
The exercise also highlights the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
and the role of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India’s first integrated tri-
service command. Its location astride critical sea lanes of communication and its
capabilities in maritime surveillance, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, search
and rescue, and regional engagement make it an important pillar of maritime security in
the Bay of Bengal.
10/31/26, 5:15 PM Press Release Page | Press Information Bureau
