31st Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) Kicks Off in Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam: The 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) is set to take place from October 23 to 29, 2024, at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam. The Republic of Singapore Navy Ship (RSS) Tenacious, equipped with an embarked helicopter, arrived at Visakhapatnam on October 23 to participate in this prestigious exercise.

Originally launched as ‘Exercise Lion King’ in 1994, SIMBEX has evolved into one of the most significant bilateral maritime collaborations between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). This year’s exercise aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations by enhancing interoperability, improving maritime domain awareness, and fostering cooperation to address shared maritime challenges.

The exercise will be conducted in two distinct phases. The Harbour Phase, running from October 23 to 25, will take place at Visakhapatnam and will include Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), cross-deck visits, sports fixtures, and pre-sail briefings among personnel from both navies.

The Sea Phase, scheduled for October 28 to 29 in the Bay of Bengal, will involve advanced naval drills, including live weapon firings, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training, anti-surface and anti-air operations, seamanship evolutions, and tactical maneuvers.

The opening ceremony for SIMBEX 2024 will be held on October 24 onboard INS Shivalik, with attendance from participating units of the Eastern Fleet and the Singapore Navy. This exercise reflects the enduring commitment of both nations to bolster maritime security and cooperation in an increasingly complex maritime environment.