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Iran’s Dena destroyer docks in Indian port as Tehran, New Delhi discuss maritime security

Iranian Navy's home-made Dena Destroyer (File photo)

Iran’s Dena destroyer has docked in the Indian port of Visakhapatnam to take part in an international naval drill as senior naval commanders from Tehran and New Delhi held talks on strengthening maritime security cooperation.

Iran’s Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani held a meeting on Friday with Chief of India’s Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi.

Irani is in India to participate in three events – namely the IONS (Indian Ocean Naval Symposium), the Milan 2026 Naval Exercise, and the International Fleet Review (IFR).

“Sustainable maritime security can only be achieved through cooperation and synergy among the countries in the region, and this active and responsible presence guarantees the stability and security of vital energy and trade routes,” said the Iranian commander.

Pointing to the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean region in global trade, Irani added that multilateral exercises offer a valuable opportunity to enhance operational coordination, improve combat readiness, and strengthen defense diplomacy.

Iran’s Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani (R) and Chief of India’s Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi meet on February 20, 2026.

He also expressed the readiness of Iran’s Navy to expand technical and educational cooperation with India and to conduct joint exercises in areas of shared interest.

“The exchange of experience in the field of long-range operations and escort missions for commercial vessels can help enhance mutual capabilities,” Irani emphasized.

Tripathi, for his part, said sustained and constructive engagement among regional naval forces plays a key role in countering common threats such as piracy, organized smuggling, and maritime natural disasters.

He pointed to the importance of sharing technical expertise, making use of mutual training capacities, and expanding maritime cooperation within the framework of common interests.

According to a statement issued by India’s Ministry of Defense, the multinational exercise has brought together navy chiefs and heads of delegations from 74 countries.

Meanwhile, Iran’s domestically manufactured Mowj-class Dena destroyer docked in Visakhapatnam on Friday to participate in Milan 2026.

The deployment is aimed at promoting maritime diplomacy, expanding defense interaction, and showcasing the operational capabilities of Iran’s Navy.

The Dena is equipped with a range of defensive and offensive systems. It is designed for long ocean voyages and is capable of detecting, tracking, and engaging aerial, surface, and submarine targets. The vessel can also carry helicopters on its deck.

 


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