Operation ATALANTA: Recently, the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) under Operation ATALANTA has proposed a joint naval exercise with the Indian Navy.

• About the Proposed Joint Naval Exercise: Exercise is expected to be conducted around the end of May 2025.

o Region of Operation: Will take place in the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea.

o Objective: To enhance coordination and maritime cooperation between European naval forces and the Indian Navy.

o Focus Areas: Addresses resurgent piracy threats and geopolitical instability in the Red Sea region.

o Advanced Drills: Will go beyond traditional Passage Exercises (PASSEX) and include: Tactical manoeuvres → Counter-piracy operations → Inter-naval communication training

• About Operation ATALANTA (EUNAVFOR): Launched in 2008, as the EU's counter-piracy mission in the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea. Targeted piracy off the Somali coast.

o Expanded Mandate Includes: Protection of World Food Programme (WFP) vessels → Surveillance of arms embargo on Somalia → Monitoring drug and arms trafficking → Combating IUU (Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated) fishing → Disruption of illegal charcoal trade