Sea phase of Singapore-India naval exercises begin

Visakhapatnam After successful completion of harbour phase, the sea phase of Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) began here in an impressive manner at the Bay of Bengal on Friday.

SIMBEX series of exercises began in 1994 and were initially known as Exercise Lion King. The scope and complexity of the exercise has risen substantially over the past two decades to include advanced naval drills covering a wide spectrum of maritime operations.

The exercise exemplifies the high level of cooperation between India and Singapore in the maritime domain. It also highlights the commitment and contribution of the two nations towards enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

The sea phase will involve advanced surface, anti-air warfare and anti-submarine warfare exercises including weapon firings in the Bay of Bengal. The harbour phase witnessed extensive professional and sporting interactions between the two navies including cross deck visits, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE) and planning meetings.

The Indian Navy is hosting the 29th edition of SIMBEX from October 26 to 30. From the Republic of Singapore Navy, RSS Stalwart (a formidable class frigate) and RSS Vigilance (a victory class corvette) arrived in Visakhapatnam on October 25 for participation in the exercise.

Rear Admiral Sean Wat Jianwen, Fleet Commander, Republic of Singapore Navy called on Vice Admiral Biswajeet Dasgupta, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command and Rear Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet immediately after their arrival. During the meetings, issues of common concern were discussed.