Operation Southern Readiness begins in Kochi with 254 participants from 26 nations
Naval officers from 26 nations begin joint maritime training in Kochi. Image: Indian Navy
New Delhi: Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 began at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi on Monday. The exercise brings together 254 participants from 26 countries. They are supported by 74 facilitators and four international organizations and subject matter experts.
As reported earlier by RNA, India is hosting the exercise for the first time. It is conducted under the Indian Navy-led Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154), in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
The opening ceremony featured remarks from the commander of CTF 154, Commodore Milind M Mokashi. This was followed by an inaugural address from the deputy commander of the Combined Maritime Forces, Commodore Dan Thomas.
Rear Admiral Deepak Singhal, chief staff officer (training) at Headquarters Southern Naval Command, delivered the keynote address. The speakers emphasised on the importance of professional training, shared learning and multinational cooperation in tackling maritime security challenges.
The first day was themed around ship management and special training. It opened with a session by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which addressed maritime security threats in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean.
This was followed by hands-on training in ship handling, navigation, astro-navigation and maritime distress communication systems. Participants also trained in damage control and firefighting, using the Indian Navy’s simulators and training infrastructure.
Over the remaining three days, participants will continue with further professional sessions. These include simulator-based training and practical exercises covering other aspects of maritime security.
The Indian Navy said the exercise reflects its partnership with the CMF in building regional capacity. It said the exercise also aims to improve interoperability and strengthen collective maritime security, while fostering professional exchange among participating nations.
