Indian Navy's Strategic Engagement: Maritime Exercise SIMBEX With Singapore To Boost Regional Security, Here's All About It

The Indian Navy is eager to enhance its operational capabilities and mutual understanding with the Singapore Navy through joint maritime exercises, stated Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet.

Speaking at a reception on board INS Shakti at the Changi Naval Base for 150 guests from Singapore's defence sector, diplomatic missions, and the Indian diaspora, he mentioned plans for the 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) to be held in Visakhapatnam in the fourth quarter of this year.

"We will be undertaking the 31st Edition of SIMBEX. We have completed the planning at the working level for the event to be held in the fourth quarter of this year at Visakhapatnam," said Rear Admiral Dhankhar, who is leading the Indian Naval Ships Delhi, INS Shakti, and Kiltan to Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines.

He expressed eagerness to enhance operability and understanding of each other's operational philosophies, as well as to improve the competency of bilateral exercises.

Rear Admiral Dhankhar, who has been associated with a two-year training programme for the Singapore Navy in the past, emphasised the importance of the current deployment to visit friendly partner navies and share experiences and knowledge in line with India's Sagar Doctrine for the security and growth of all.

The fleet arrived in Singapore on Monday (6 May) and will sail to Malaysia on Thursday before continuing to the Philippines.

Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr Shilpak Ambule, highlighted the Indian Navy's engagement in the region, noting its outward trajectory and evolving nature. He emphasised the need for collaboration to address maritime challenges and deepen bilateral partnerships, particularly with Singapore.

Dr Ambule also highlighted India's historical and cultural ties with ASEAN countries, which have translated into vibrant economic engagement, and praised the Indian Navy's role in securing vital sea lanes in the Red Sea to ensure the safety of sailors and commercial ships and maintain uninterrupted trade.