INS Talwar arrives in South Africa for multinational maritime exercise IBSAMAR VIII
| 2024-10-10
Indian Navy Ship INS Talwar arrives at Simon’s Town, South Africa, on October 6, 2024.
One of the technological highlights of this edition is the use of the Indian Navy’s NISHAR system
Indian Navy’s stealth frigate, INS Talwar, has reached Simon’s Town, South Africa, to participate in the eighth edition of Exercise IBSAMAR, a biennial multinational maritime exercise involving the navies of India, Brazil, and South Africa. The exercise, running from October 6 to 18, 2024, is designed to enhance interoperability and cooperation between the three maritime nations.
A Strategic Maritime Collaboration
IBSAMAR, a trilateral naval exercise, serves as a platform for these nations to engage in a comprehensive array of maritime drills, strengthening their operational capabilities. The exercise's central focus is Blue Water Naval Warfare, covering critical dimensions such as Surface and Anti-Air Warfare.
South Africa’s strategic geographical location makes it the permanent host of the exercise, despite the leadership rotating among the participating countries. The collaboration demonstrates the shared vision and commitment of India, Brazil, and South Africa towards regional maritime security and stability.
Exercise Structure and Activities
The exercise is divided into two key phases:
Harbour Phase (06-09 October) - Taking place at Simon’s Town Harbour, this phase involves:
Professional exchanges and knowledge sharing among naval personnel.
Damage Control & Firefighting drills, focusing on enhancing crew efficiency in emergency scenarios.
Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations, crucial for combating piracy and illegal maritime activities.
Cross-boarding exercises and joint diving operations to refine interoperability.
Aviation safety lectures, improving coordination for aerial support missions.
An Ocean Governance seminar and various sports interactions to foster camaraderie.
Sea Phase (10-16 October): This phase, conducted off the coast of False Bay and the Cape West Coast area, includes tactical maneuvers, search and rescue operations, and maritime security drills.
The South African Navy has deployed the frigate SAS Amatola, supported by a Super Lynx helicopter, an Oryx helicopter, and two Hawk jets. The Brazilian Navy is participating with the Niteroi-class frigate BNS Defensora, equipped with a Super Lynx helicopter and a Special Forces team. The Indian Navy has sent INS Talwar, along with its Ka-31 airborne early warning helicopter and an Indian Special Forces team.
Defence cooperation between India and South Africa is on an upward trajectory. Following the 12th edition of Navy-to-Navy talks held in New Delhi in August 2024, the two navies commenced operational sea training and submarine rescue support initiatives.
One of the technological highlights of this edition is the use of the Indian Navy’s NISHAR (Network for Information Sharing) system. This advanced system allows seamless communication and information sharing between the naval forces involved. NISHAR’s plug-and-play architecture enables real-time sharing of text, emails, and multimedia, ensuring effective communication over long distances during joint exercises.
Exercise IBSAMAR also focuses on addressing shared challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, and drug trafficking. By coordinating efforts and sharing best practices, the participating navies aim to create a more secure maritime environment.
As the eighth edition of IBSAMAR unfolds, it stands as a testament to the growing maritime cooperation between India, Brazil, and South Africa. The exercise not only enhances their operational capabilities but also strengthens diplomatic ties, ensuring that these nations remain united in their commitment to regional security and stability.
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