INS Trikand, a frontline guided missile frigate of the Indian Navy (IN), concluded a port call at Mombasa, Kenya, on 10 April 2026. The port call coincided with the visit of Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command (FOC-in-C, West), to Kenya. The ship is deployed on operations that contribute to maritime security and to the protection of maritime routes in the region.

FOC-in-C, West formally handed over INSAS rifles and ammunition to Major General Paul Owuor Otieno, Commander of the Kenya Navy, during a formal ceremony onboard the ship. Activities undertaken during the stay alongside included handling and maintenance of small arms and ammunition, visit board search and seizure training, cross deck visits, community service, sports fixtures and yoga sessions. Personnel from both navies participated in drills aimed at enhancing seamanship, tactical coordination and logistical support during the port visit.

Commanding Officer INS Trikand, Captain Sachin Kulkarni, called on Brigadier Mohammed Shee Shemote, Commander of the Kenya Navy Fleet, and a cultural evening was held onboard the ship. The ship has since proceeded for further operational deployment and will continue to execute assigned missions in the region. Senior officers exchanged professional perspectives to deepen understanding of regional maritime challenges and to identify avenues for sustained training cooperation.

The port call reflects India’s MAHASAGAR vision, Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions, and is expected to strengthen camaraderie, mutual cooperation and bilateral relations. Such engagements serve to enhance interoperability, professional exchanges and maritime cooperation between the IN and the Kenya Navy and to reinforce shared commitments to regional security and goodwill. The engagement underscores a long-term commitment to people-to-people contacts and to practical cooperation at sea that underpin diplomatic ties. Community activities offered an opportunity to deepen interpersonal ties between servicemen and local communities.