INS Karmuk has participated in the Singapore-India-Thailand Maritime Exercise (SITMEX-25) for almost a week now. This is the fifth edition of SITMEX, which began on November 23 and was hosted this year by the Republic of Singapore Navy.
The aim of the exercise is to bolster maritime cooperation, enhance interoperability and strengthen the collective capability of the three navies in the Indo-Pacific region. The exercise opened with a three-day Harbour Phase that included cross-deck visits, professional exchanges and friendly sporting events to build mutual understanding and camaraderie among participating personnel.
Naval Component Commander Commodore Nitesh Garg and INS Karmuk’s Commanding Officer called on High Commissioner of India to Singapore Dr Shilpak Ambule and briefed him on the ship’s visit for the ongoing maritime exercise, according to the High Commissioner on Friday.
The Indian High Commission welcomed INS Karmuk, describing it as an indigenously built Kora-class corvette, and extended best wishes to the three navies for “a productive series of professional exchanges”.
The Sea Phase along the International Maritime Boundary Line has been underway since November 26 and will conclude on November 29, featuring complex manoeuvres, tactical drills and communication exercises. The motive of these coordinated operations is to reinforce shared maritime interests, demonstrate seamless cooperation and highlight the commitment of the three countries to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific Region.
The exercise will conclude with a closing ceremony onboard RSS Dauntless in Phuket on November 29, marking the successful completion of the engagement and the enduring maritime partnership among the three nations.