Sahyog-Hop Tac 2018 is a joint exercise between India and Vietnam. This exercise is a part of the ongoing defense cooperation between the two nations. Let's understand the details of this joint exercise:

Background:
- India and Vietnam share a long-standing history of bilateral relations, especially in the defense sector.
- Both countries have been collaborating in various areas, including defense industry cooperation, maritime security, and joint exercises, to strengthen their strategic partnership.

Sahyog-Hop Tac 2018:
- Sahyog-Hop Tac is the name given to the joint exercise conducted between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG).
- The exercise aims to enhance the interoperability and operational coordination between the two coast guards in dealing with maritime challenges.
- It provides an opportunity for both the Indian and Vietnamese coast guards to exchange best practices and learn from each other's experiences.
- The exercise focuses on various aspects of maritime security, such as search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, and pollution response.

Objective:
The key objectives of Sahyog-Hop Tac 2018 are:
1. Strengthening the cooperation and understanding between the Indian and Vietnamese coast guards.
2. Enhancing the capabilities of both coast guards in dealing with maritime security threats.
3. Promoting regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Significance:
- The joint exercise reflects the growing defense ties between India and Vietnam.
- It showcases the commitment of both countries to maintain peace and stability in the region.
- The exercise also demonstrates India's "Act East" policy, which focuses on deepening engagement with Southeast Asian nations.
- Sahyog-Hop Tac 2018 contributes to the overall maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region by improving the capacity of the participating coast guards.

Conclusion:
Sahyog-Hop Tac 2018 is a significant joint exercise between India and Vietnam, aimed at strengthening their defense cooperation and enhancing maritime security capabilities. It highlights the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.