The fleet, comprising Indian Naval Ships Delhi, INS Shakti, and Kiltan, arrived in Singapore on Monday and will proceed to Malaysia before visiting the Philippines
The Indian Navy is gearing up to strengthen its cooperation with the Singapore Navy through joint maritime exercises, according to Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet. Speaking at a reception aboard INS Shakti at the Changi Naval Base, he announced plans for the 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) to be held in Visakhapatnam later this year.
“We look forward to further enhancing our operability and understanding of each other’s operational philosophy,” Dhankhar stated, emphasising the importance of increasing the competency of bilateral exercises.
The fleet, comprising Indian Naval Ships Delhi, INS Shakti, and Kiltan, arrived in Singapore on Monday and will proceed to Malaysia before visiting the Philippines.
Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, highlighted the Indian Navy’s increasing engagement in the region, particularly in Singapore, noting its outward trajectory and evolving construct. He emphasized the need for collaboration to address maritime challenges and underscored the historical and cultural ties between India and ASEAN countries.
Ambule also commended the Indian Navy for its role in securing vital sea lanes in the Red Sea, ensuring the safety of sailors and commercial ships.
The Indian Navy’s deployment in the region aligns with the Sagar Doctrine, emphasising security and growth for all, he added, expressing confidence in the strengthening relationship between the Indian and Singapore Navies.