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The Indian Navy’s indigenously developed stealth multi-role frigate, INS Shivalik, has embarked on a crucial operational deployment to the South China Sea and Pacific Ocean regions. After a successful port call in Singapore, the formidable vessel has set sail for Yokosuka, Japan, where it is slated to participate in two significant maritime exercises – JIMEX 24 and RIMPAC 24.
Enhancing Naval Interoperability: Indian Navy
This deployment is strategically important since it intends to improve Indian Navy interoperability with Japan, the US, and other partners. The Indian naval contingent hopes these joint drills would improve maritime cooperation, operational readiness, and maritime security awareness.
JIMEX 24: Strengthening Indo-Japanese Naval Ties
The Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) is a bilateral naval exercise that has been a cornerstone of the growing maritime partnership between India and Japan. JIMEX 24 will allow the two fleets to drill together, share best practices, and improve operational synergy.
RIMPAC 24: A Multilateral Maritime Endeavor
The US holds Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) every two years, one of the major international naval warfare exercises. RIMPAC 24 in Hawaii will feature 29 nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, 150 aircraft, and 25,000 soldiers from June 26 to August 2.
Operational Turnaround in Singapore: INS Shivalik
INS Shivalik’s operational turnaround in Singapore before heading for Japan showed the Indian Navy’s strong maritime partnerships and shared ideals with regional allies.
- Courtesy Calls: The ship’s crew visited Changi Naval Base Commander and India’s High Commissioner to Singapore to build relations.
- Wreath Laying: A solemn wreath-laying ceremony was held at the Kranji War Memorial, honoring the sacrifices of fallen soldiers.
- Information Fusion Centre Visit: The team showed India’s naval domain knowledge at the Information Fusion Centre, a regional maritime security effort.
- Cross-deck Visits: Cross-deck visits with the USS Mobile (LCS) showed the Indian Navy and US Navy’s close collaboration and similar principles.
- Community Engagement: In a heartwarming gesture, around 80 schoolchildren were welcome aboard INS Shivalik, fostering public engagement and inspiring the next generation of maritime enthusiasts.
Navigating Contested Waters: Indian Navy
The Indian Navy deploys to the South China Sea and Pacific Ocean when maritime claims and territorial disputes escalate. China claims historical rights, rejects international tribunal rulings, and challenges the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam’s South China Sea EEZs. The Indian Navy’s joint drills and naval presence demonstrate its commitment to peace, freedom of navigation, and the rules-based international order at sea.
Philippines: A Vital Maritime Partner
The recent visit of Indian Navy ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan to Manila, Philippines, as part of the Eastern Fleet’s operational deployment to the South China Sea, underscores India’s importance on its maritime partnership with the Philippines. China and the Philippines are arguing over Scarborough Shoal, a traditional fishing location in the Philippines’ EEZ. India must defend UNCLOS and coastal nations’ sovereignty. Shown by Indian navy ships.
Shared Values and Common Interests: INS Shivalik
The Indian and Australian High Commissioners’ trips to INS Shivalik’s Singapore turnaround demonstrate India’s maritime and regional ties. India is dedicate to creating an inclusive and cooperative marine environment that will promote prosperity and stability in the region. It has championed the concept of “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR).
The Indian Navy has significantly moved toward greater maritime cooperation and security in the Indo-Pacific area by deploying INS Shivalik to participate in JIMEX 24 and RIMPAC 24. India communicates with partners and uses naval might to uphold international law, freedom of navigation, and regional stability. India’s naval cooperation and maritime responsibility are shown by this deployment.
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