The Republic of Singapore Navy and the Indian Navy mark three decades of cooperation in the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise.

The 30th edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) was successfully conducted from September 21 to 28, 2023. This joint effort between the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Indian Navy (IN) comprised a shore phase at RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base from September 21 to 24, followed by a sea phase in the South China Sea’s southern reaches from September 25 to 28, all within international waters.

During this significant milestone, RSN’s Formidable-class frigates RSS Stalwart and RSS Tenacious, each equipped with an S-70B naval helicopter, and the Victory-class missile corvette RSS Valour played key roles. The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) contributed a Fokker50 maritime patrol aircraft along with four F-15SG fighter aircraft. The Indian Navy brought in the Rajput-class destroyer INS Ranvijay, the Kamorta-class corvette INS Kavaratti, and a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. A noteworthy development was the deployment of a submarine by both navies for the first time in SIMBEX history.

At the opening ceremony, the RSN’s Fleet Commander, Colonel Kwan Hon Chuong, and the IN’s Commodore Submarine Operations, Commodore Sumeet Singh Sodhi, unveiled the commemorative logo. Colonel Kwan highlighted SIMBEX’s evolution over three decades, stating, “SIMBEX stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between the IN and RSN, evolving into a platform that not only strengthens our operational capabilities but also nurtures the bonds of friendship among our sailors.”

The exercise encompassed joint planning, professional exchanges, and sports activities during the shore phase. Additionally, a joint standard operating procedures (JSOP) document for submarine rescue was signed. At sea, a series of naval exercises covering air, surface, and underwater domains, including gunnery firing, air defense, anti-submarine, communication, and maneuvering drills were conducted. The event concluded with a sail-past of participating ships, marking a successful commemoration of three decades of collaboration in maritime security and naval warfare.

Image Credit – Ministry of Defence, Singapore