A contingent from the Seychelles Defence Forces has departed for Mauritius to take part in National Day celebrations while another team joins a regional military exercise in the Indian Ocean.
Personnel from the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) will take part in the 58th Mauritian National Day celebrations, including the National Défilé.
At the same time, the Seychelles Coast Guard vessel PS Andromache and its crew will represent Seychelles in Exercise Papangue 2026 in Réunion Island.
Exercise Papangue is a French-led multinational military exercise in the Indian Ocean. A press statement said the exercise aims to strengthen cooperation between participating forces.
“Exercise Papangue is a French-led multinational military exercise in the Indian Ocean, aimed at enhancing joint operational capabilities, interoperability and regional security partnerships,” the statement said.
Senior officers attended the cast-off ceremony before the contingent departed. These included Chief of Staff Colonel Michael Hollanda, Seychelles Coast Guard Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel David Arissol, and Force Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Louis Agathine.
The statement said the Force Chaplain provided blessings before the personnel departed and will accompany them during the exercise.
“Force Chaplain Lt. Col. Louis Agathine provided blessings and will accompany personnel to provide pastoral care and spiritual support throughout the exercise,” the statement added.
After the missions, PS Andromache and PS Etoile will enter dry dock. The statement said the vessels will undergo maintenance and inspections to ensure full operational readiness.