International, Defence and Summits · 4 October 2026

India and ASEAN Navies Begin Second Joint Maritime Exercise AIME-2026 at Subic Bay in the Philippines

Exam-focused facts from the 4 October 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

  • The second ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2026) commenced at Subic Bay in the Philippines on September 28, 2026, under the theme 'Anchored in Trust, United at Sea'.
  • Indian Naval Ships INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish are participating alongside maritime forces from ASEAN member states.
  • Ambassador of India to the Philippines Shri Harsh Kumar Jain attended the opening ceremony as Guest of Honour.
  • The exercise includes a harbour phase with expert exchanges, cultural and community activities, and a sea phase focused on operational coordination and interoperability.
  • AIME-2026 is conducted in furtherance of India's Act East Policy and supports the MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).