PM Christopher Luxon Visits INS Surat: Strengthening Naval Ties Between India and New Zealand

During the visit, the dignitaries received an extensive briefing on the cutting-edge design, advanced technological capabilities, and strategic importance of INS Surat.

The Hon’ble Prime Minister of New Zealand, Mr. Christopher Luxon, accompanied by Rear Admiral Garin Golding, Chief of Navy, Royal New Zealand Navy (CN-RNZN), paid a significant visit to the latest indigenously built guided missile destroyer of the Indian Navy, INS Surat, at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. The high-profile delegation was warmly welcomed aboard by Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Western Naval Command, marking yet another milestone in India-New Zealand maritime cooperation.

A Deep Dive into INS Surat’s Technological Prowess

During the visit, the dignitaries received an extensive briefing on the cutting-edge design, advanced technological capabilities, and strategic importance of INS Surat. Commissioned on 15 January 2025, this warship is a testament to India's self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai, INS Surat boasts an indigenous content exceeding 75%. The warship is equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, sophisticated radar systems, and next-generation propulsion technology, significantly bolstering India’s maritime security.

Prime Minister Luxon expressed admiration for India’s shipbuilding prowess, emphasizing New Zealand’s keen interest in fostering greater collaboration with the Indian Navy. He commended India's commitment to self-reliance in defense and lauded the efforts of engineers and defense personnel involved in INS Surat's development.

Coinciding with HMNZS Te Kaha’s Visit to Mumbai

The Prime Minister’s visit comes at a crucial time as the Royal New Zealand Navy Ship HMNZS Te Kaha docks in Mumbai for a scheduled port call from 20 to 24 March 2025. The visit of the Anzac-class frigate marks a pivotal step in enhancing bilateral naval cooperation. Discussions held during the visit focused on avenues for joint operations, technical collaboration, and knowledge sharing between the two navies.

Cmde Rodger Ward, Commander of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, is also present in Mumbai as part of ongoing engagements, further underscoring the growing maritime ties between New Zealand and India. He held key discussions at Headquarters, Western Naval Command, addressing strategic naval engagements and prospects for future joint operations.

Strategic Naval Discussions and Strengthening Cooperation

As part of the high-level visit, Rear Admiral Garin Golding held a meeting with Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, FOC-in-C, WNC, where they delved into strategic maritime security concerns and collaborative efforts. A comprehensive briefing was provided on the Western Naval Command’s role, operational capabilities, and India’s broader Indo-Pacific security initiatives.

Following the discussions, the New Zealand naval delegation visited the Heritage Hall at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, where they were given insights into the historical legacy and evolution of the Indian Navy. Rear Admiral Golding also met with the Admiral Superintendent of the Dockyard to explore potential technical support avenues for HMNZS Te Kaha, which is scheduled to return for maintenance and operational readiness preparations in April 2025.

In a solemn tribute to the brave personnel of the Indian Navy, Rear Admiral Golding laid a wreath at the Gaurav Stambh, honoring the sacrifices made in the defense of the nation.

Engagement Activities and Maritime Partnership Exercise

To commemorate this significant visit, an array of activities has been planned, fostering deeper camaraderie between the two naval forces. Cross-deck visits between INS Surat and HMNZS Te Kaha are set to facilitate knowledge exchange on operational best practices and maritime strategies. Additionally, sports fixtures and social engagements will further strengthen the bond between Indian and New Zealand naval personnel.

A key highlight of the visit will be the Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX), scheduled to take place as HMNZS Te Kaha departs Mumbai. This exercise will focus on enhancing operational coordination, improving interoperability, and reinforcing the commitment to regional maritime security. The joint maneuvers will include tactical drills, communication exercises, and naval warfare simulations, underscoring the growing synergy between the two navies.

Forging a Stronger Indo-Pacific Maritime Alliance

The visit of New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and senior naval officials reaffirms the commitment of both nations to maintaining a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region. It signals a broader vision of maritime cooperation that includes enhanced defense diplomacy, shared security initiatives, and strategic collaborations in the face of evolving maritime threats.

As India continues to expand its naval outreach through indigenous shipbuilding and regional partnerships, the strengthening ties with New Zealand serve as a crucial component of a broader maritime security framework. With the successful engagements between INS Surat and HMNZS Te Kaha, both navies are poised for deeper cooperation in the years to come, ensuring stability and collective progress in the Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Luxon’s visit to INS Surat, alongside the concurrent visit of HMNZS Te Kaha and senior New Zealand naval officials, highlights the strengthening defense ties between India and New Zealand. The discussions and engagements undertaken during this visit set the stage for enhanced operational collaboration and technical partnerships. With planned maritime exercises and continued exchanges, both navies are taking significant strides towards fostering a resilient and cooperative maritime alliance for the future.