The Indian Navy is building 'Bridges of Friendship' with the Iranian Navy in an effort to familiarise friendly foreign navies about operations and training of Indian naval platforms.

INS Sudarshini was escorted by Iranian vessel IRIS Zereh to Port Sahid Bahonar, Bandar Abbas, Iran on 22 December 21. The ship was welcomed by the Iranian navy and the Naval Attaché from the Indian embassy. Indian ambassador to Iran, Gaddam Dharmendra, and other officials from the Indian embassy took a tour of the ship.

The navies of the two countries discussed mutual cooperation, as well as training and capacity building of cadets and young officers. Capt. Hamza, Director of Training of the Iranian Navy, and Iranian Navy Trainee officers, also called Sea Riders, visited the ship for familiarisation. They were provided with practical knowledge on seamanship, sail arrangement, rope work and the technicalities of sail training.

A statement by the Defence Ministry said that officers from the two navies also discussed historical maritime linkages between the two countries.

INS Sudarshini will stay at Bandar Abbas for three days during which it will also provide training to the Iranian Navy's Sea Riders.