INS Mumbai. (Photo: Indian Navy)
New Delhi: INS Mumbai, the indigenously designed and built guided missile destroyer, is participating in the fifth edition of the multinational exercise “La Perouse”. The exercise started on January 16 and will end on January 24.
This iteration of the exercise involves the participation of personnel, surface, and sub-surface assets from nine Indo-Pacific nations, including the Royal Australian Navy, the French Navy, the Royal Navy, the United States Navy, the Indonesian Navy, the Royal Malaysian Navy, the Republic of Singapore Navy, and the Royal Canadian Navy.
The exercise aims to develop a common maritime situational awareness by enhancing cooperation in maritime surveillance, maritime interdiction operations, and air operations, along with the conduct of progressive training and information sharing. It provides an opportunity for like-minded navies to develop closer links in planning, coordination, and information sharing for enhanced tactical interoperability. The exercise will witness complex and advanced multi-domain activities, including surface warfare, anti-air warfare, air-defence, cross-deck landings, tactical manoeuvres, and constabulary missions such as visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) operations.
The exercise is divided into two phases. The first phase, from January 16 to January 20, focuses on the Malacca and Sunda Straits, which are crucial sea lanes connecting the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. The second phase, from January 21 to January 24, involves securing the Lombok Strait.
Participation of the Indian Navy in the exercise showcases the high levels of synergy, coordination, and interoperability between the like-minded navies and their commitment to a rules-based international order in the maritime domain. This collaboration underscores the collective resolve to maintain peace and stability in the region.
This visit aligns with India’s vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) to enhance maritime cooperation and collaboration for a safer and more secure Indo-Pacific Region. The involvement of the Navy in such international exercises not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also underscores India’s role as a key player in promoting maritime security and stability. The Navy’s participation also exemplifies its commitment to upholding the principles of international maritime law and fostering a spirit of collaboration among the world’s navies.
As the exercise progresses, it is anticipated that the participating navies will benefit from shared experiences and enhanced cooperation, contributing to the overall maritime security architecture.
