The PASSEX exercise marked the culmination of the New Zealand-led CTF 150 Joint Focused Operation ANZAC Tiger (27 Mar - 04 Apr 2025), a Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) operation in which INS Tarkash was deployed.

The PASSEX involved a range of interoperability drills, including cross-deck landings, cross boarding, Sea Rider exchanges and tactical manoeuvres, all integrated with communication procedure exercises. This provided a valuable opportunity for the two navies to exchange best practices, further strengthen their bilateral maritime cooperation and enhance interoperability.

The event conducted in the strategic Indian Ocean Region demonstrated the strong and enduring relationship between India and New Zealand, reaffirming the Indian Navy’s role as a responsible and preferred security partner committed to regional maritime stability.