Indian naval ship arrives in Ctg on goodwill visit

Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar entered Chattogram harbour on Friday after successfully transiting through the Bay of Bengal as part of the multinational IOS SAGAR 2026 deployment.

The port call reflects growing maritime cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Bangladesh Navy and underlines the close ties between the two neighbouring countries, according to a statement issued by the Indian High Commission.

The vessel was received in Bangladesh waters by BNS Ali Haider (F17), which escorted it to the harbour.

During the visit, the commanding officer of IOS Sagar is scheduled to hold a series of courtesy calls with senior Bangladesh Navy officials, including the Commander Chattogram Naval Area (COMCHIT), the Commander Bangladesh Naval Fleet (COMBAN) and the Area Superintendent Dockyard (ASD). The meetings are aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and operational exchanges between the two navies.

A number of professional, diplomatic and commemorative activities have been planned during the visit.

COMCHIT will host a welcome reception for the crew and senior military officials on the evening of arrival, while IOS Sagar will organise a deck reception the following day to mark the successful completion of the port call.

The commanding officer will also pay tribute to shared wartime sacrifices through a wreath-laying ceremony at the Chattogram Common-wealth War Cemetery.

As part of operational engagements, the commanding officer is expected to meet the Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority to discuss maritime logistics and port security. Naval personnel from both countries will also participate in cross-deck visits and professional exchanges aboard the ships.