Days before their warship encountered its tragic fate at sea, the crew of the Iranian warship, IRIS Dena, had its members making the most out of their time exploring India, snapping pictures along the shores, and visiting some of the country’s most famous landmarks, particularly as part of the multinational naval engagement in the Bay of Bengal.
The Iranian warship had taken part in the multinational naval exercise, which was dubbed 'Exercise Milan', conducted by the Indian Navy between February 18 to 25. According to officials, the warship was on its way home when it encountered its tragic fate after being hit during the US submarine attack off the coast of Sri Lanka, killing 87 crew members. Some of the crew members remain missing, while 32 others were rescued after the early morning distress call.
Time ashore in Visakhapatnam
Before the exercise began, sailors from the IRIS Dena disembarked in Visakhapatnam between February 13 and 15. During their stay, the crew interacted with Indian Navy personnel and visited several locations around the coastal city.
According to a press note from the Visakhapatnam defence establishment, the visiting officers also travelled beyond the city to experience some of India’s historic sites. "They experienced the beauty of Taj Mahal and the profound sanctity of Mahabodhi temple where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment," the note said.
Within Visakhapatnam, the sailors explored prominent tourist and cultural spots. They visited Rushikonda hilltop known as Kailasagiri, the Victory at Sea War Memorial, the submarine museum, and the Sankalp Art Village on the outskirts of the city.
A Navy officer guiding the visitors recalled that many of them were young and enthusiastic about exploring the country. "On their last day, they went sightseeing and shopping. They were impressed with the glass skywalk at Kailasagiri," one of their Navy guides said.
Selfies on the beach
The sailors also spent time along the city's famous RK Beach Road, where a march past involving participants from different countries was held. The event was watched by thousands of spectators, including students from local colleges.
A hotel owner near the beach recalled the moment when the Iranian contingent mingled with other participants. "The students were among thousands who turned up to watch the parade. I specifically recall seeing the Iranian contingent, though there were sailors from other countries too. It was quite a spectacle. They posed for selfies and took photos of the beach… As a hotelier, I always hope that whoever visits beautiful Vizag returns home safely," the report quoted Suresh K, the hotel owner, as saying.
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Naval exercise and cooperation
Exercise Milan was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on February 19, with participation from several foreign navies. President Droupadi Murmu later witnessed the exercise, which included 85 ships and 19 foreign warships.
Officials said there were interactions between crews of different navies during the event. "There were cross-deck visits by Iranian crew to Indian warships, and Indian Navy personnel went aboard the Iranian ship. Young officers interacted with one another," an official said. "They were a jovial bunch. We all enjoyed their time here."
Following the distress call from the frigate near Sri Lanka, search and rescue operations were launched with assistance from Sri Lankan authorities and the Indian Navy.
