India, US Navies to Conduct Joint EOD Exercise in Kochi Starting August 10
The Indian Navy and the United States Navy are set to hold a five-day explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) exercise at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi from August 10 to 14, 2026. The bilateral exercise, now in its eighth edition, aims to strengthen interoperability and professional cooperation between the specialist diving and ordnance disposal teams of the two navies.
According to an official statement from the Indian Navy, the exercise will bring together personnel from both sides for expert exchanges, cross-training, equipment demonstrations, and scenario-based practical sessions. The focus will be on sharing contemporary EOD methodologies, emerging technologies, and operational best practices, while also fostering a deeper understanding of each other's capabilities in the maritime domain.
The exercise is part of a long-standing partnership between the Indian Navy and the U.S. Navy, which have been conducting joint salvage and EOD exercises since 2005. These engagements are designed to enhance the ability of participating teams to respond to complex challenges related to explosive hazards in maritime environments. Such cooperation is crucial for ensuring safety of navigation, protecting naval assets, and addressing asymmetric threats in the region.
The choice of Kochi as the venue is significant, as the Southern Naval Command hosts the Indian Navy's premier diving and EOD training facilities. This allows for realistic and comprehensive training scenarios that mimic operational conditions. The exercise also underscores the growing defence cooperation between India and the United States, which has expanded in recent years to include joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and technology collaboration.
Explosive ordnance disposal is a critical capability for any navy, involving the detection, identification, and neutralisation of unexploded ordnance, mines, and improvised explosive devices. The joint exercise enables both navies to learn from each other's experiences and adapt to evolving threats, including those posed by modern sea mines and underwater improvised devices.
Beyond the tactical aspects, the exercise also contributes to the broader strategic partnership between India and the U.S., which is anchored in shared democratic values and a common interest in maintaining a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. Regular interactions between naval personnel help build trust and mutual understanding, which are essential for effective coordination in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and maritime security operations.
The Indian Navy has emphasised that the exercise is not aimed at any third country but is a routine engagement to enhance professional skills and promote regional stability. Both navies have consistently conducted such bilateral activities as part of their commitment to ensuring peace and security in the maritime domain.
In addition to the EOD exercise, India and the U.S. participate in several other joint military exercises, including the Malabar naval exercise, which involves multiple navies and covers a wide range of operations. This year's EOD exercise in Kochi is expected to further strengthen the bond between the two navies and set the stage for deeper collaboration in specialised maritime operations.
The exercise will conclude on August 14, following which the participating personnel will depart. The Indian Navy has not disclosed the exact number of personnel involved, citing operational security.
