Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar arrived at Chattogram, Bangladesh, on eight May 2026 as part of the IOS SAGAR 2026 deployment, and the visit seeks to strengthen maritime cooperation and professional ties between the Indian Navy and the Bangladesh Navy. The port call formed part of a multinational deployment aimed at enhancing interoperability and coordinated response in the Indian Ocean Region. The deployment offered an opportunity to consolidate routine engagement and foster sustained naval cooperation.

On entering Bangladesh waters, IOS Sagar was received by Bangladesh Navy Ship BNS Ali Haider (F17), which escorted the ship into the harbour. The commanding officer of IOS Sagar was scheduled to call on senior officials of the Bangladesh Navy, including the Commander Chittagong Naval Area, the Commander Bangladesh Naval Fleet and the Area Superintendent Dockyard, to enhance professional engagement and operational cooperation. The programme included dialogue on maritime safety, search and rescue coordination and shared training priorities.

The commanding officer was due to pay tribute at the Chattogram War Cemetery as part of commemorative activities. Professional and social activities during the port call included engagements with the Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority and cross-deck visits between Bangladesh Navy personnel and the multinational crew onboard IOS Sagar. These interactions were intended to enable the exchange of best practices and strengthen mutual understanding of procedures.

The crew also planned visits to the Issa Khan Training Complex and the Bangladesh Naval Academy to exchange views on training practices and capacity building, while friendly sports fixtures were arranged to promote goodwill and camaraderie. The visit reflected the close maritime relationship between India and Bangladesh and supported India's vision of regional cooperation and mutual growth in the Indian Ocean Region under the MAHASAGAR initiative. The port call contributed to sustained engagement and enhanced interoperability for a more secure maritime environment.