Indian Naval Ships Ranvijay and Kavaratti, alongside the impressive submarine INS Sindhukesari, have made their way to the shores of Singapore.
Their mission: to participate in the 30th Singapore India Maritime Bilateral Exercise, more commonly known as SIMBEX. This annual naval exercise has been a tradition since its inception in 1994 and is a testament to the robust partnership between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). In fact, SIMBEX boasts the remarkable distinction of being the Indian Navy’s longest-standing continuous naval exercise with any foreign nation.
SIMBEX-2023 is divided into two main phases. The Harbour Phase, scheduled from September 21st to 24th, is the initial stage, to be followed by the Sea Phase. Joining the fleet of Ranvijay, Kavaratti, and Sindhukesari is the Long-Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft P8I, adding another dimension to this exercise.
During the Harbour Phase, sailors and officers from both navies will engage in a diverse array of activities. This includes professional discussions, cross-ship visits, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE), and friendly sports competitions. These interactions serve the purpose of fostering greater interoperability and a deeper mutual understanding between the two naval forces.
The Sea Phase of SIMBEX 23 promises to be a thrilling spectacle, featuring intricate air defense drills, live gunnery firings, tactical maneuvers, anti-submarine warfare exercises, and various other maritime operations. It’s an opportunity for both navies to sharpen their combat skills while reinforcing their ability to conduct joint operations across different domains in the maritime arena.
As the Indian Naval Fleet and INS Sindhukesari sail into the waters of Singapore, they carry not just their formidable vessels but also the spirit of cooperation and camaraderie. SIMBEX 23 stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between India and Singapore and their commitment to maritime security in the region.