SIMBEX 2024: India-Singapore Maritime Exercise

The 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) is underway in Visakhapatnam from October 23-29, 2024. The exercise, which originated in 1994, aims to strengthen strategic partnerships between India and Singapore,

Exercise Overview

31st edition of Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) underway
Taking place in Visakhapatnam from October 23-29, 2024
RSS Tenacious from Singapore Navy arrived on October 23
Opening ceremony held aboard INS Shivalik on October 24
Exercise originated in 1994 as 'Exercise Lion King'
Longest continuous bilateral maritime exercise conducted by Indian Navy

Exercise Structure & Phases

Harbour Phase (October 23-25, Visakhapatnam)

- Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs)
- Cross-deck visits between naval personnel
- Sports fixtures to build camaraderie
- Pre-sail briefings and preparations

Sea Phase (October 28-29, Bay of Bengal)

- Advanced naval drills
- Live weapon firings
- Anti-submarine warfare training
- Anti-surface and anti-air operations
- Tactical maneuvers and seamanship exercises

Strategic Objectives

Strengthen strategic partnership between India and Singapore
Enhance interoperability between naval forces
Improve maritime domain awareness
Address common maritime challenges
Foster cooperation in regional security
Develop joint response capabilities
Share operational expertise and best practices
Promote peace and stability in maritime domain

Broader Context & Significance

Exercise conducted annually, hosted alternately by both nations
Continued even during COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting its importance
Coincides with other bilateral military engagements:
- 6th India-Singapore Defence Ministerial Dialogue 2024 held in New Delhi
- 12th edition of India-Singapore Joint Military Training exercise ongoing at Kalaikunda Air Force Station
Previous edition (30th SIMBEX) was hosted by Singapore in September 2023
Represents growing naval partnership between two key Asian maritime powers
Platform for adapting to evolving maritime security challenges
Focus on addressing transnational issues like piracy and illegal fishing
Expected to incorporate new technologies and tactics in future editions

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