Indian Coast Guard promotes maritime cooperation through 'Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission'

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has taken a significant step toward enhancing maritime security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. According to the Ministry of Defence, the ICG ship 'Shaunak' set sail from Chennai to Perth, Australia, on September 25, 2026. This voyage is part of the 'Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission', aimed at improving operational synergy between India, Australia, Japan, and the United States.

Representatives from all four nations are participating in this mission. A total of six 'sea riders' have embarked on the ship, including two officers each from India and Japan, and one officer each from Australia and the United States. The primary objective for these officials is to deepen mutual trust and elevate maritime cooperation through professional exchanges.

This initiative aligns with the joint statement issued by Quad foreign ministers on May 26, 2026. The Quad nations share a collective commitment to maintaining a free, open, and inclusive maritime environment in the Indo-Pacific. This mission represents a concrete effort toward ensuring such a rules-based order.

This move by the Indian Coast Guard also reflects India's 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. The mission not only strengthens professional ties but also underscores India's dedication to a secure maritime environment within the Indo-Pacific.

Various activities and programs are being conducted on board the ship, providing officers with the opportunity to understand each other's operational methods and improve collective engagement. This could prove to be a significant milestone in the field of maritime cooperation.

Through this mission, the Quad nations are demonstrating their maritime capabilities and reiterating their resolve to work together. It is a collective effort to maintain stability across the Indo-Pacific region.

This proactive participation by the Indian Coast Guard highlights India's growing maritime role on the international stage. The mission is expected to make maritime security cooperation among Quad nations even more effective in the future.