The Indian Navy conducted a critical medical evacuation on February 14, 2026, rescuing a critically ill Japanese sailor from a Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force vessel located 200 kilometers off the Visakhapatnam coast. The sailor was airlifted to INS Dega and then transferred to INS Kalyani for urgent medical care.
According to the Eastern Naval Command spokesperson, the operation was a testament to the swift response capability of the Indian Navy as a global security partner. ‘This was not a mock drill; it was a real-life critical emergency evacuation,’ the spokesperson emphasized.
This event underscores the robust maritime cooperation between India and Japan, reflecting a longstanding partnership in regional security and emergency response.
Looking forward, this operation may pave the way for future joint exercises and enhanced collaboration between the two nations’ naval forces, further strengthening their strategic alliance.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 15th, 2026
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