ICG Ship Shaunak To Take Part In QUAD-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission

The Indian Coast Guard is deepening its ties with QUAD partner nations through the QUAD-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission, a joint initiative aimed at building stronger maritime coordination across the Indo-Pacific region. The mission brings together India, Australia, Japan, and the United States on a shared platform for the first time in this format.

QUAD-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission Overview

1. This mission is a collaborative maritime exercise designed to improve interoperability and mutual understanding among the navies and coast guards of QUAD nations. 
2. Rather than a combat exercise, it focuses on shipboard activities, professional exchanges, and coordination drills that help participating countries work together more smoothly during real maritime operations. 
3. The initiative directly reflects the commitments made in the Quad Foreign Ministers' Joint Statement of May 26, 2026, which called for a free, open, and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific.

ICG Ship Shaunak Sailed for Australia to Take Part in the Mission

On September 25, 2026, the Indian Coast Guard Ship Shaunak departed Chennai for Perth, Australia, to join the mission. The voyage itself is symbolic, showing India's willingness to actively participate in multinational maritime engagement rather than limiting cooperation to its own waters.

Six Sea Riders to Take Part in the Mission

A total of six Sea Riders are onboard Shaunak for the journey. This includes two officers from India and Japan, and one officer each from Australia and the United States. These officers will take part in joint shipboard activities during the voyage, allowing them to observe each other's operational practices and build professional relationships that strengthen long-term cooperation.

How the QUAD-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission Is Important for India?

For India, this mission is closely linked to its broader maritime vision known as MAHASAGAR—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. It highlights India's growing role as a security partner in the Indo-Pacific and reinforces the Indian Coast Guard's commitment to collective engagement and a secure maritime environment. The mission also supports India's diplomatic and strategic goals within the QUAD grouping,