The Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS De Ruyter (F804) docked in Kochi, India, on May 4, 2026, as part of a five-month Indo-Pacific deployment aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation between India and the Netherlands. The Indian Navy provided an escort and a ceremonial welcome for the ship. During the visit, a high-level Dutch delegation, led by Rob De Wit (Deputy Commander of the Royal Netherlands Navy), engaged in discussions with Rear Admiral Prakash Gopalan, Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command, focusing on training and operational collaboration. The delegation also paid tribute to fallen personnel by laying wreaths at the SNC War Memorial. Additionally, they will visit key training establishments and Cochin Shipyard Limited to explore shipbuilding opportunities. Before departing, HNLMS De Ruyter is set to conduct a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with an Indian naval vessel to enhance interoperability between the two navies.