India has enhanced its capacity-building initiatives with partner nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) by gifting two water-jet-propelled Fast Interceptor Crafts (FIC) to Mozambique on 8 November, the Indian Navy announced. These advanced FICs were transported to Mozambique aboard the Indian Navy’s INS Gharial. They are expected to bolster Mozambique’s maritime security, especially in combating terrorism and insurgency challenges in the Cabo Delgado province.
India’s latest contribution continues a longstanding commitment to Mozambique’s maritime security. In 2019, India provided Mozambique with two large interceptor vessels, followed by two more FICs in January 2022, to support Mozambique’s coastal patrols and security operations.
“These high-performance, water-jet-propelled boats have a top speed of 45 knots and a range of 200 nautical miles at 12 knots. Each vessel can carry five crew members, features bullet-resistant cabins, and is equipped with machine guns, adding a critical layer to Mozambique’s counterinsurgency capabilities,” stated Indian Navy.
#INSGharial arrives at Nacala Port, Mozambique!
Towards fostering & strengthening #maritimesecurity in the region & building #BridgesofFriendship, the #IndianNavy handed over two Fast Interceptor Crafts to the #MozambicanArmedForces.A significant moment for the GoI's Vision of… pic.twitter.com/GdpMU4nvoD
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) November 9, 2024
The Indian Navy has become a trusted partner for many nations in the IOR for ensuring maritime security, working closely with regional allies to address challenges such as piracy, drug and human trafficking, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and maritime terrorism. In addition to security support, India has frequently responded to calls for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) within the region. For instance, in 2019, when Cyclone Idai hit Mozambique’s Sofala province, Indian Naval Ships Sujata and Shardul, along with Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi, were deployed to provide critical rescue and relief support, saving over 200 civilians and delivering essential supplies and medical aid to affected areas.
Beyond equipment, India is committed to capacity-building through training and advisory support. Mozambique’s armed forces personnel have been trained at Indian defence institutions, and an Indian Coast Guard support team stationed in Maputo provides on-job training for operating and maintaining the vessels gifted by India. This close collaboration has allowed Mozambique to utilize these interceptors in anti-insurgency missions, maritime patrols, interdiction, and logistical operations, enhancing their overall maritime operational readiness.
Regular naval engagements have further strengthened India-Mozambique ties, with Indian warships making frequent port calls at Maputo, Beira, and Nacala. In March 2023, Indian Naval Ships Tir and Sujata joined the India-Mozambique-Tanzania (IMT) Trilateral Exercise at Nacala, underscoring India’s commitment to enhancing joint operational skills and maritime security coordination. Joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance missions and training exercises with the Mozambique Navy further highlight India’s investment in shared security in the region.
This dynamic partnership aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, underscoring India’s enduring commitment to fostering stability and security with its maritime neighbours across the IOR.
Team BharatShakti
