- The Navies of India and Singapore are participating in the annual maritime bilateral exercise SIMBEX in the South China Sea.
- The sea phase of the bilateral naval drill started on May 19, 2019 and will continue till May 22.
- IN ships Kolkata and Shakti taking part in the bilateral naval exercise, along with long-range maritime patrol aircraft Poseidon-8I.
- The Singapore side is being represented by RSN ships Steadfast and Valiant, maritime patrol aircraft Fokker-50 and F-16 fighter aircraft.
- India Maritime Bilateral Exercise SIMBEX-2019 is scheduled from 16 May to 22 May 19.
- The forces of India and Singapore share robust military ties. The South China Sea waters, which are claimed by many littoral states, have been witnessing muscling in of the Chinese navy. Over the years SIMBEX has stood the test of time in demonstrating the nation’s commitment to enhance maritime cooperation between the two navies and bolster bonds of friendship between the two countries.
Background
- Since its inception in 1993, SIMBEX has grown in tactical and operational complexity. the annual bilateral exercise saw its progression from traditional anti-submarine exercises to more complex maritime exercises such as advanced air defence operations, anti air/ surface practice firings, tactical exercises, etc.
- Over the years SIMBEX has stood the test of time in demonstrating the nation’s commitment to enhance maritime cooperation between the two navies and bolster bonds of friendship between the two countries. For SIMBEX 19, the IN has deployed its finest assets for with an aim to strengthen mutual trust, enhance interoperability, and build greater synergy to address common maritime concerns among both navies.
