Indian and Vietnamese coast guard vessels conduct maneuvers during Exercise SAHYOG HOP-TAC in the Bay of Bengal in August 2026. INDIAN COAST GUARD
PACOM’s Indo-Pacific Defense Forum reports,
“India and Vietnam are advancing defense cooperation across service branches, a broadening of ties that reflects sharpening security concerns and shared interests in regional stability and secure maritime routes.
“India-Vietnam military relations have shifted from strategic dialogue to deep, tactical integration,” Australia-based defense analyst Nguyen The Phuong told FORUM.
The nations agreed in May 2026 to upgrade relations to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the leaders of their coast guards met in India in August to discuss strengthening engagements and operational coordination.
The accompanying photo (above) speaks volumes for the utility of cooperation between Coast Guards as first steps toward good international relationships.
Both India and Vietnam have concerns regarding China. China’s “Nine Dash Line” results in disputes with Vietnam.
Nine Dash Line and EEZs. Source CIA
