New Delhi: Indian naval ship Satpura, on Thursday, reached Hawaii to participate in the largest multilateral water exercise in the world.This year the exercise is scheduled off Hawaii from June 30 to August 4 and is likely to be attended by 27 countries.
RIMPAC is the world’s largest international maritime exercise, which provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world’s oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971.
Exercise RIMPAC is held biennially in the Western Pacific Ocean and Indian Navy’s association commenced with participation as an ‘Observer’ in 2006, 2010 and 2012.
In 2014, Indian naval participation was enhanced with deployment of Sahyadri in the 24th edition of the exercise.
Indian naval participation provides a platform for multilateral operational interactions aimed at increased inter-operability and development of common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations, a statement issued by the Navy said.
The professional exchanges in harbour and diverse range of activities at sea, including complex surface, sub-surface and air operations would enable sharing of best practices and honing of operational skills.
Indian Naval ship Satpura, an indigenously built guided missile stealth frigate, part of the Eastern Fleet, will participate in the exercise.
Participation in Exercise RIMPAC 2016 is another significant milestone in Indian Navy’s efforts towards, strengthening mutual confidence as well as sharing of best practices with other navies of the region, the statement said.
Indian Navy’s participation in the exercise will support maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, and contribute to peace and stability of the global commons.
(With Agency inputs)
