INS Sutlej, a specialized hydrographic survey vessel of the Indian Navy, has arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius, to conduct the 18th Joint Hydrographic Survey mission, which commenced on September 29, 2025. This initiative, carried out under a longstanding bilateral MoU on Hydrography, aims to cover approximately 35,000 square nautical miles and includes training for Mauritian officials in hydrographic data collection and processing. The deployment of INS Sutlej underscores the commitment of India and Mauritius to enhance scientific collaboration and strengthen strategic maritime ties, reflecting their mutual interests in navigational safety and sustainable ocean resource management in the Indian Ocean Region. This mission not only reinforces India’s role as a responsible maritime power but also highlights the importance of regional cooperation in addressing common challenges.