The five-day 2nd ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) 2026 started Monday in Subic Bay, Zambales, to give navy personnel from both countries practical maritime cooperation and engagement.

The PN, in a statement Wednesday, said the 1st AIME took place in May 2023 in southern India.

“With the theme, ‘Anchored in Trust, United at Sea,’ AIME 2026 provides an opportunity for ASEAN member states and India to translate their shared commitment to maritime cooperation into practical collaboration and greater mutual understanding at sea,” it said.

The PN said the training features “coordinated maritime security operations, joint training, and subject matter expert exchanges” as well as “opportunities to enhance coordination and share knowledge and best practices.”

“Following the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security Joint Cooperative Activity held last week, ASEAN Member States and India are once again joining efforts to strengthen maritime cooperation, mutual trust, and interoperability among participating navies,” it explained.

Through this exercise, the PN continues to uphold the country’s defense diplomacy efforts and strengthen maritime partnerships with ASEAN Member States and India, contributing to regional security, stability and peaceful maritime environment. (PNA)