India, U.S. navies conclude Explosive Ordnance Disposal exercise in Kochi
The Indian and U.S. navies concluded a joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal exercise in Kochi, focusing on maritime security and specialized diving operations. The training aimed to improve interoperability and share best practices regarding underwater threats and mine neutralization.
Why it matters
Strengthening military cooperation between India and the U.S. is a key component of regional maritime security strategy in the Indo-Pacific.
The eighth edition of the India-U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Exercise 2026 concluded at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi on August 14, 2026, with the two navies conducting intensive professional exchanges and joint training in specialised maritime operations.
The Indian Navy, in an official release on Monday (August 17, 2026), stated that the bilateral exercise focused on sharing operational knowledge and best practices in EOD operations. Subject matter expert exchanges covered real-time threats from improvised explosive devices (IEDs), render-safe procedures, mine neutralisation and the use of unmanned underwater systems.
The cross-training phase included exercises in diving disciplines such as wreck location and salvage, employment of specialist equipment and slithering operations, it added.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in