Indian Naval Ship Trikand (INS Trikand) arrived at Mombasa on seven April 2026 as part of its deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region. The visit was intended to strengthen maritime cooperation and to enhance bilateral ties between India and Kenya. The ship is a frontline guided missile frigate of the Indian Navy and will undertake a series of engagements while alongside.

The port call coincided with the visit of Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, to Kenya. Professional, cultural and social engagements are scheduled and essential stores will be handed over to the Kenya Defence Forces. The ship's commanding officer will call on senior government functionaries to further diplomatic contact.

On departure from Mombasa, INS Trikand will conduct a Passage Exercise with units of the Kenya Navy (KN) to facilitate the exchange of best practices. The exercise is intended to deepen bilateral maritime interoperability and to enhance operational coordination. Training activities and tactical manoeuvres will provide opportunities for personnel from both navies to refine procedures and to build familiarity with one another.

The port call aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision for mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions. The deployment demonstrates a commitment to ensuring a secure maritime environment and to supporting regional prosperity. The visit is expected to reinforce practical cooperation and to contribute to sustained engagement across the South West Indian Ocean Region.

While alongside, the ship will complete replenishment of essential supplies and undertake routine maintenance to sustain operational readiness. Professional exchanges and cultural interactions will further people-to-people ties and to promote mutual understanding between naval personnel. The call will also provide opportunities for follow up planning on future cooperative activities and for reinforcing communication channels between maritime authorities.