33rd India-Singapore Maritime Exercise SIMBEX-2026 Begins in Visakhapatnam

The 33rd edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX-2026) commenced in Visakhapatnam on 21 October, with a Harbour Phase featuring professional interactions and joint planning scheduled until 23 October, followed by a Sea Phase involving maritime operations and tactical drills in the Bay of Bengal from 24 to 26 October.

Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) ship RSS Supreme arrived at Visakhapatnam on 21 October to participate in the exercise.

The opening ceremony was held onboard INS Nilgiri and INS Kamorta on 21 October, attended by the Chief Staff Officer (Operations) of the Eastern Naval Command, the Fleet Commander of the RSN, and other senior officers from both navies.

Established in 1994 as Exercise Lion King, SIMBEX has evolved into a key component of India-Singapore maritime cooperation. Over the years, the exercise has expanded in scope and complexity, strengthening professional ties, mutual understanding and operational interoperability between the two navies, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The Harbour Phase will include professional interactions, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), cross-deck visits, sporting engagements and planning conferences. The Sea Phase will feature maritime operations and tactical exercises covering anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface and anti-air warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and tactical manoeuvres.

SIMBEX-2026 underscores the enduring maritime partnership between India and Singapore and their shared commitment to enhancing interoperability, addressing common maritime security challenges, and promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

-PIB inputs

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