The SIMBEX series of exercises between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), which commenced on November 23 will come to an end today. The SIMBEX series of exercises are being conducted every year since 1994 between the Indian Navy and Republic of Singapore Navy.
Indian Navy hosted the 27th edition of India – Singapore Bilateral Maritime Exercise SIMBEX-20 held in the Andaman Sea from November 23-25. The exercises are aimed at boosting inter-operability between the two navies and imbibing best practices from each other.
The scope and complexity of the exercises have risen substantially over the past two decades to include advanced naval drills covering a wide range of maritime operations. The Symbex series of exercises demonstrate a high level of coordination and unity between India and Singapore. Both countries are committed to enhancing overall naval security and a rules-based international order.
SIMBEX-20 will witness participation from INS Rana from the Indian side. It will be joined by integral Chetak helicopter and indigenously built corvettes Kamorta and Karmuk. INS Sindhuraj and P8I maritime aircraft will also participate in the exercise.
The Singapore Navy will be represented by the ‘Formidable’ Class frigates ‘Intrepid’ and ‘Steadfast’. The frigates will be joined by integral S70B helicopter and ‘Endeavour’, which is an ‘Endurance’ Class Landing Ship Tank.
The exercise is being conducted as a ‘non-contact, at sea only’ exercise due to the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic.
The exercise highlights the high level of mutual trust, confidence, synergy and cooperation between the two friendly navies and maritime neighbours in the maritime domain.
The exercise will include advanced surface, anti-air warfare and anti-submarine warfare exercises including weapon firings, over three days of intensive joint operations at sea.
