The Indian and UK navies successfully conducted Exercise Konkan-25 from October 5 to 8, 2025, off the western coast of India, showcasing their enhanced interoperability and operational capabilities in high-intensity maritime operations. This bilateral exercise, which has grown in scale and complexity over the past two decades, marked the historic first-time collaboration between the Indian Navy’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales within the same carrier strike group. The Sea Phase included various complex operations such as anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine drills, underscoring the tactical synergy between the two navies. Following the sea phase, the UK Navy’s HMS Richmond visited Mumbai Port, highlighting the deepening strategic ties and continued maritime cooperation between India and the UK. This exercise aligns with the UK’s broader strategic objectives under Operation HighMast, emphasizing its commitment to a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region while reinforcing the importance of collaborative defense efforts among allies. The successful execution of Exercise Konkan-25 not only enhances the naval readiness of both nations but also contributes to regional maritime stability, reflecting India’s growing stature as a key maritime player and its commitment to fostering durable partnerships with allies to counter emerging security challenges.