INS Sahyadri and Kulish Reach Subic Bay for ADMM-Plus Naval Exercise

Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish arrived at Subic Bay in the Philippines on 20 September 2026 to take part in the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM)-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity (JCA), as part of the Indian Navy's operational deployment.

The ADMM-Plus JCA assembles maritime forces from ASEAN member states along with eight Plus countries. Its professional and operational engagements are designed to improve interoperability, build mutual understanding and deepen cooperation in the maritime domain.

India's participation is aligned with the Government of India's Act East Policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). The deployment, the Navy said, reflects India's continuing commitment to multilateral maritime cooperation and constructive engagement with regional partners.

The visit also offers the Indian Navy a chance to interact with other participating maritime forces, contributing to a shared understanding of common maritime challenges.

The port call underscores the expanding maritime engagement between India and the Philippines. It builds on recent bilateral interactions and the establishment of the India–Philippines Strategic Partnership in August 2025, providing an opportunity to further strengthen professional linkages and maritime cooperation between the two countries.