Exercise Kakadu 2026

Source: ET

Context:

In March 2026, the Indian Navy (IN) participated in Exercise Kakadu 2026, a major multilateral naval exercise hosted by Australia. The INS Nilgiri took part in the sea phase as part of India’s deployment to the Western Pacific, reinforcing maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

What is Exercise Kakadu?

Exercise Kakadu is a biennial multilateral naval exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

Purpose:

• Enhance maritime cooperation and interoperability
• Promote regional security and stability
• Strengthen partnerships among Indo-Pacific navies

Exercise Kakadu 2026: Key Highlights

1. Scale and Participation

• 17th edition of the exercise
• Participation from:
  • 19+ countries
  • Around 6,000 personnel

Area of Operations:

• Spanned a vast region from:
  • Jervis Bay to
  • Darwin, Australia

2. Fleet Review

• Kakadu Fleet Review held at:
  • Sydney Harbour, New South Wales
• Date: 21 March 2026

India’s Participation

1. Deployment of INS Nilgiri

• INS Nilgiri, a frontline Indian Navy frigate, represented India
• Participated in:
  • Coordinated naval manoeuvres
  • Multinational maritime exercises

2. Joint Operations

INS Nilgiri operated alongside warships from:

• Malaysia
• Philippines
• Thailand

3. Achievement

• The crew of INS Nilgiri won the Kakadu Shield Trophy
• Awarded during sporting events in the harbour phase at Darwin