India, Maldives Begin 14th Edition of Military Exercise ‘Ekuverin’
India and the Maldives have launched the 14th edition of Exercise Ekuverin in Kerala, strengthening defence cooperation, counter-terror readiness, and regional security in the Indian Ocean.
Introduction: A Renewed Chapter in Regional Security
As dawn broke over Thiruvananthapuram this week, contingents from the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) stood shoulder to shoulder, marking the beginning of the 14th edition of Exercise Ekuverin. What began years ago as a modest bilateral drill has now evolved into a symbol of trust, shared values, and a collective commitment to securing one of the world’s most strategically sensitive regions—the Indian Ocean.
This year’s exercise, scheduled to continue until December 15, arrives at a moment when maritime cooperation and counter-terror preparedness are more critical than ever. Against growing security challenges, Ekuverin stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations.
Context & Background: A Longstanding Defence Partnership
Meaning “friendship” in Dhivehi, Ekuverin reflects not just military cooperation but a political and cultural relationship rooted in decades of engagement. India has long been a key security partner for the Maldives, frequently assisting during humanitarian crises, maritime emergencies, and defence capacity building.
The exercise is part of a broader framework of defence engagements between the two nations:
- Exercise Ekatha – the annual joint naval drill
- Exercise Dosti – a biennial trilateral Coast Guard exercise involving India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka
- Multiple training exchanges, maritime surveillance support, and coastal security initiatives
Conducted alternately in both countries, Ekuverin has become a cornerstone of military cooperation, helping troops adapt to diverse terrains—from the dense jungles of India to the coastal belts of the Maldives.
Main Developments: Focus on Interoperability and Modern Threats
Held in Kerala’s capital, this year’s edition of Ekuverin places strong emphasis on counter-insurgency (CI) and counter-terrorism (CT) operations. The training modules are designed to simulate real-world scenarios in semi-urban, jungle, and coastal terrain, reflecting the complex threat environment of South Asia.
A striking feature of Ekuverin 2025 is the integration of niche military technologies. From coordinated surveillance tools to advanced communication systems, the exercise aims to align both forces with modern operational standards.
Key objectives include:
- Enhancing interoperability during joint operations
- Standardizing tactical procedures
- Sharing best practices learned from combat, peacekeeping, and maritime missions
- Strengthening coordination mechanisms for joint responses in the Indian Ocean
The Indian Army and MNDF units will participate in joint drills, field training exercises, weapon handling sessions, mission planning, and interactive workshops led by senior officers.
Expert Insight: Why the Exercise Matters Now
Defence analysts say the timing and nature of Ekuverin reflect broader geopolitical shifts in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
According to Bengaluru-based security expert Lt. Col. (Retd.) Parth Menon,
“Ekuverin is far more than a military drill. It’s a strategic message. India and the Maldives are asserting their commitment to a stable, secure, and free Indo-Pacific, especially at a time when external powers are expanding their influence in the region.”
The Maldives National Defence Force has voiced similar sentiment. Senior MNDF officials have repeatedly emphasized the importance of joint preparedness, particularly as small island nations face evolving risks—from maritime terrorism to climate-driven emergencies that demand coordinated responses.
Public reaction in both countries has been largely positive, with citizens viewing Ekuverin as evidence of strengthening diplomatic ties and regional harmony.
Impact & Implications: Strengthening the Security Grid of the Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean is a central artery of global maritime trade—carrying nearly 80% of the world’s seaborne oil transport. Its security is vital not just for India and the Maldives, but for international stability.
The outcomes of this year’s exercise are expected to have several long-term implications:
1. Greater Counter-Terror Preparedness
The CI/CT focus will enable both countries to respond jointly to terrorism, radicalization, and insurgency threats that can spill across borders or exploit maritime routes.
2. Enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness
Operational synergy between India and the MNDF will support better monitoring of illegal fishing, smuggling, trafficking, and piracy.
3. Strengthened Diplomatic Relations
The exercise helps reinforce trust and cooperation at a time when geopolitical externalities are shaping Indian Ocean politics.
4. Technology-Driven Defence Collaboration
The push for niche technologies may lead to deeper collaboration in AI-powered surveillance, communication systems, and tactical equipment.
5. Foundation for Future Joint Operations
Skills gained in this exercise will aid future HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) missions—particularly crucial for island nations vulnerable to climate crises.
Conclusion: A Shared Future Anchored in Security
As Exercise Ekuverin 2025 progresses in Kerala, it continues to echo its core value—friendship. For India and the Maldives, the exercise represents far more than an annual tradition; it is an evolving partnership shaped by shared challenges and an ambition to secure a peaceful, resilient Indian Ocean Region.
With enhanced interoperability, integrated technology, and strengthened diplomatic ties, both nations are building a future where regional security is a collective effort, not an isolated responsibility.
Disclaimer :This article is based solely on the provided headline and bullet-point information. It is intended for educational, journalistic, and informational purposes only. All interpretations and narrative elements are original to the author.