Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tarkash participated in a PASSEX (Passing Exercise) with the Royal New Zealand Navy’s Anzac-class frigate HMNZS Te Kaha in the Gulf of Aden on April 4. The exercise marked the culmination of the New Zealand-led CTF 150 Joint Focused Operation ANZAC Tiger (March 27–April 4), a Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) initiative, during which INS Tarkash was mission-deployed.
The PASSEX featured a wide spectrum of interoperability drills, including cross-deck landings, cross-boarding, Sea Rider exchanges, tactical manoeuvres, and communication exercises, according to an official release.
The interaction served as a valuable opportunity for both navies to exchange best practices, strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation, and enhance operational interoperability.
The #PASSEX was conducted while INS Tarkash was mission deployed for participating in the #NewZealand led #CTF150 Joint Focused Operation #ANZACTiger from 27 Mar 25 to 04 Apr 25. The exercise provided an opportunity to exchange Best Practices and further enhance bilateral… pic.twitter.com/A8Vpnk8hio
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) April 7, 2025
Conducted in the strategic waters of the Indian Ocean Region, the exercise underscores the enduring defence ties between India and New Zealand and reaffirms the Indian Navy’s role as a reliable and preferred security partner dedicated to regional maritime stability.
Team BharatShakti
