India-Tanzania Launch Joint Maritime Exercise
India and Tanzania launch AIKEYME, a maritime drill with 9 nations to boost Indian Ocean security and regional cooperation.
India-Tanzania Maritime Drill Draws Participation from Nine Nations
DAR ES SALAAM, April 3, 2025 — In a significant step toward enhancing maritime security and regional cooperation, the Indian Navy and the Tanzania People's Defence Force (TPDF) have launched a new multilateral maritime initiative titled Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME). The landmark exercise, which is set to officially begin next week, will include naval and maritime forces from nine countries.
The week-long drill will be hosted by Tanzania and feature participation from the navies and maritime agencies of Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa, alongside India. AIKEYME is designed to foster operational synergy and reinforce collective preparedness in safeguarding the Indian Ocean region.
Speaking at a press briefing, Indian High Commission spokesperson Lakshay Anand emphasized that the name “AIKEYME” is derived from the Sanskrit word for “Unity,” reflecting the fundamental belief that maritime security must be a collaborative, cooperative, and regionally driven effort.
“This initiative aligns closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), which seeks to advance peace, security, and sustainable growth throughout the Indian Ocean,” Anand stated.
He further noted that participating nations face a broad and evolving range of maritime threats, including piracy, illegal fishing, trafficking, and environmental disruptions caused by climate change. These complex challenges, he stressed, demand a unified and strategic response.
“AIKEYME represents more than a concept—it is a commitment to action,” Anand added. “It marks a step forward in reinforcing regional leadership, building operational trust, and advancing maritime diplomacy grounded in mutual respect, professional standards, and shared aspirations.”
The upcoming drill not only signals India’s growing engagement with Africa but also highlights the strategic relevance of regional collaboration in ensuring safe and secure waters across the Indian Ocean.
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