India’s participation in Exercise Pacific Reach 2025, a 40-nation naval drill in the South China Sea, marks a significant advancement in its maritime diplomacy and operational readiness. The deployment of INS Nistar, a Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel support ship, showcases India’s advanced submarine rescue capabilities, aligning with its vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. This engagement not only enhances India’s interoperability with global navies but also reinforces its role as a responsible stakeholder in regional security amidst rising tensions with China. By fostering multilateral defense networks and projecting its influence beyond the Indian Ocean, India is positioning itself as a credible maritime power committed to stability and cooperative security in contested waters.