The Indian Navy has deployed a P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft to Guam for the US-led multinational anti-submarine warfare exercise Sea Dragon. The two-week drill brings together maritime patrol aircraft from India, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. It reflects growing operational cooperation among Indo-Pacific partners amid heightened regional security concerns.
Exercise Sea Dragon
The exercise focuses on anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance. It includes two US Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft, one Indian Navy P-8I, two P-8A aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force, one P-8A from the Royal New Zealand Air Force and one P-1 maritime patrol aircraft from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. The participating aircraft share common mission systems, sensors and data-link capabilities. This commonality supports closer coordination during joint operations and improves interoperability among partner navies.
Training Objectives
The drill is designed to improve aircrew proficiency in anti-submarine warfare. Training progresses from track-simulated targets to the detection and tracking of a live submarine.
- Crews undertake more than 200 cumulative hours of in-flight training.
- Pilots and aircrew also conduct classroom planning sessions.
- The sessions are used to refine joint tactics and operational procedures.
Indian Navy’s Wider Maritime Role
The deployment comes as the Indian Navy continues to escort and monitor India-bound merchant vessels in the Arabian Sea. This effort is aimed at safeguarding sea lanes and ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies to India. The P-8I is a key platform for long-range maritime patrol, surveillance and anti-submarine warfare. Its participation in Sea Dragon underlines India’s focus on maritime domain awareness and cooperation with Indo-Pacific navies.
Regional Security Context
The exercise is taking place against a tense Indo-Pacific backdrop. Military activity around Taiwan has increased, with Chinese aircraft and naval vessels operating near the island. North Korea has also continued missile and military demonstrations during ongoing US-South Korea exercises. The drill therefore serves both operational and strategic purposes. It strengthens coordination among like-minded navies and supports deterrence in a sensitive maritime environment.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026