The 14th edition of the Indian - Russian bilateral naval exercise Indra began on Friday and will continue till April 2, the Ministry of Defence said.

The six-day exercise is being held in Chennai.

"Since its inception in 2003, Exercise INDRA epitomises the long-term strategic relationship between the two Navies," the Ministry of Defencce said in a statement.

Symbol Of Maritime Cooperation

The exercise has evolved into a symbol of maritime cooperation, showcasing the two nations' commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy.

"The exercise is being conducted in two phases - Harbour phase from 28 to 30 Mar 25 at Chennai, and Sea phase from 31 Mar to 02 Apr 25 in Bay of Bengal," the statement said.

The exercise will see participation of Russian Federation Naval Ships Pechanga, Rezkiy and Aldar Tsydenzhapov along with Indian Naval Ships Rana, Kuthar and Maritime patrol aircraft P8l.

The Harbour Phase will include Opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), reciprocal visits, sports fixtures, and pre-sail briefings between personnel from both navies.

Sea Phase

The Sea Phase will witness advanced naval drills, including tactical manoeuvres, live weapon firings, anti-air operations, underway replenishment, helicopter cross-deck landings and exchange of sea-riders.

"These exercises and interactions are intended at enhancing maritime cooperation, strengthening bridges of friendship, exchanging best operational practices and to bolster diplomatic ties between the two nations," the statement said.

Vladimir Putin To Visit India

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India as he has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to tour the South Asian country.

Modi, during his last visit to Russia, had invited Putin to tour India.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said as quoted by TASS News agency, "(Russian) President Vladimir Putin has accepted an invitation to visit from the Indian head of government. A visit by the Russian head of state to the Republic of India is currently being prepared."

The arrangements are underway, the top Russian diplomat said.

Lavrov has noted that Modi chose India's all-weather geopolitical friend Russia as his first foreign visit after coming to power for the third consecutive term in 2024.

"Now it's our turn," Lavrov said.

This will be Putin's first visit to India since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war.

The two leaders are likely to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war and the geopolitical issues following Donald Trump's return as the US President.

(Wth inputs from IBNS)