Exercise IBSAMAR IX 2026 has commenced in Simon’s Town, Western Cape, bringing together the navies of India, Brazil and South Africa for a multinational maritime exercise aimed at strengthening interoperability, professional cooperation and maritime security.
Taking place from 8 to 21 October 2026 in the Simon’s Town and False Bay areas, the exercise is hosted by South Africa, with India serving as the lead nation. It provides a platform for the three participating navies to enhance their ability to plan, coordinate and execute combined maritime activities in a multinational environment.
First conducted in South Africa in May 2008, Exercise IBSAMAR has developed into a longstanding defence engagement between the three nations. The exercise reflects their continued commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships and improving cooperation between their respective naval forces.
Exercise IBSAMAR IX comprises harbour and sea phases, featuring a range of professional engagements, training serials and maritime activities. These activities are designed to enhance interoperability, facilitate the exchange of professional knowledge and operational experience and strengthen coordination between the participating forces.
Throughout the exercise, naval personnel and maritime assets from India, Brazil and South Africa will conduct coordinated activities in and around Simon’s Town and False Bay. The programme provides opportunities for the participating navies to share expertise, develop professional relationships and improve their ability to operate together in a multinational environment.
Beyond operational training, Exercise IBSAMAR IX underscores the importance of sustained defence cooperation between India, Brazil and South Africa. The exercise demonstrates the three nations’ shared commitment to maritime security, international cooperation and the peaceful use and governance of the maritime domain.
As maritime security remains an important consideration for nations with significant maritime interests, exercises such as IBSAMAR provide a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships, exchange operational knowledge and improve collective preparedness.
Residents, business owners and motorists in Simon’s Town, False Bay and surrounding areas have been advised to expect increased traffic volumes throughout the exercise period. These conditions may be compounded by ongoing roadworks in the Fish Hoek area.
As part of the ceremonial welcome for visiting foreign naval vessels, 21-gun salutes will be fired from Lower North Battery on 8 and 11 October 2026, at an unspecified time between 08:00 and 12:00.
Exercise IBSAMAR IX 2026 will continue until 21 October, providing India, Brazil and South Africa with an opportunity to deepen naval cooperation, strengthen professional relationships and advance their shared maritime security objectives.