A focal point of the exercise was the collaborative diving operations, witnessing the spirit of international cooperation
In a demonstration of naval excellence and international camaraderie, the Indian Navy's flagship INS Tir, leading the First Training Squadron, significantly contributed to the successful execution of Exercise Cutlass Express 24 (CE – 24).

The event, hosted in Port Victoria, Seychelles, from February 26 to March 8, 2024, was inaugurated by the President of Seychelles. Representatives from India, the USA, and various African nations graced the occasion, highlighting a unified commitment to fortify maritime security and foster global cooperation across the Indian Ocean rim.

Engaging with 16 friendly foreign nations, CE – 24 was a strategic amalgam of complex Maritime Interdiction Operations, detailed Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills, and advanced Diving operations. The INS Tir's VBSS team displayed operational excellence and tactical prowess, undertaking precision boarding operations on the Seychelles Coast Guard ship LE Vigilant. This meticulous demonstration primed the Indian Navy's adeptness in critical maritime engagements, reinforcing the essence of strategic preparedness and seamless execution.

A focal point of the exercise was the collaborative diving operations, witnessing the spirit of international cooperation. Divers from the Indian Navy, alongside their US and Seychellois counterparts, engaged in intricate underwater missions following an intensive week of training. These joint endeavors highlighted the paramount importance of interoperability and mutual trust among the forces, setting a precedent for future maritime collaborations.

The presence of Rear Admiral Calvin M Foster, Deputy Commander of the US Navy 6th Fleet, onboard INS Tir, added a layer of strategic discourse to the exercise. Admiral Foster's insights into the importance of maritime cooperation resonated with the participants, underlining the critical role of the Indian Navy in cementing regional security and fostering diplomatic ties.

The culmination of CE – 24 was marked by a grand closing ceremony at the Seychelles Defence Academy, symbolizing the collective achievements and the strengthened bonds among the partner nations. 

Complementing the naval exercise, INS Tir's engagement in Seychelles was enriched with bilateral surveillance initiatives, professional exchanges, and community outreach programs. The joint EEZ surveillance with the Seychelles Coast Guard, from March 1 to March 3, 2024, represented the strategic strategic partnership between the two nations. Cultural engagements, included the Indian Naval band's enthralling performance and philanthropic contributions to the local elderly.

Diplomatic endeavors by Captain Anshul Kishore, Senior Officer of the First Training Squadron, further solidified India's rapport with Seychelles. This was followed by courtesy calls on Seychelles’ key governmental and defense figures and the goodwill gesture of donating spares for Seychelles Coast Guard ships and aircraft.

The deployment of INS Tir in Seychelles and its active role in Exercise Cutlass Express 24 epitomizes the Indian Navy's strategic foresight, operational excellence, and commitment to international cooperation. This venture reaffirms India's stature as a significant maritime power and creates a  collaborative framework for ensuring a secure and stable Indian Ocean region, nurturing the seeds of enduring partnerships and regional prosperity.