Our Bureau
Singapore
The Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) recently concluded a visit to Singapore, marking a significant step in strengthening maritime cooperation between India and Singapore. The squadron, comprising INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, arrived at Changi Naval Base on February 6, 2025, for a long-range training deployment to Southeast Asia.
Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Shilpak Ambule, emphasized the importance of this engagement, highlighting the unique opportunity it provides for trainees to understand the social, cultural, and military linkages between the two countries and the broader Indian Ocean region. During a reception held for the 1TS,
The ships engaged in a variety of activities aimed at enhancing cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). These included professional exchanges, cross-training visits, and friendly sports fixtures. Such interactions reinforce the strong maritime partnership between the two navies, underscoring their commitment to Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
Ambule was briefed on the training activities undertaken by the squadron and interacted with the Sea Trainees, emphasizing the Indian Navy’s crucial role in enhancing maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Senior Officer 1TS, along with the Commanding Officers of INS Sujata and ICGS Veera, met with Col Rinson Chua Hon Liat, Commander, Maritime Training and Doctrine (MTDC), to discuss maritime issues of mutual interest.
The Indian Navy’s engagement with Singapore is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its presence and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The region has gained increasing geopolitical significance due to economic interests and security concerns. India has been working with other nations, including the United States and Japan, to promote a peaceful, open, equitable, stable, and rule-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
The Indian Ocean holds strategic importance for India, with increasing dependence on sea routes for import and export of essential cargo, including crude and refined energy products, trade, and other commodities. India’s interests and linkages have expanded from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal to the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), across the Indo-Pacific Region, and into the Atlantic Ocean.
The First Training Squadron’s visit to Singapore exemplifies India’s commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation and promoting security in the Indo-Pacific region. The engagements between the Indian and Singaporean navies contribute to building trust, interoperability, and a shared understanding of maritime challenges.
