India and Vietnam Coast Guard Joint Exercise

The Vietnam Coast Guard Ship CSB 8005 departed Kochi after a successful visit that enhanced cooperation between the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). This four-day visit included various activities aimed at improving maritime security collaboration.

Purpose of the Visit

The primary goal of the visit was to encourage coordination between the VCG and ICG. Officials brought into light the importance of joint efforts in addressing maritime security challenges.

Sea Exercise – Sahayog Hop Tac

An aspect of the visit was the sea exercise named Sahayog Hop Tac, which took place off the coast of Kochi. This exercise addressed critical maritime security issues and featured a Pollution Response Demonstration.

During the demonstration, ICG ships and aircraft showcased their capabilities in responding to oil spills and environmental hazards. This exercise aimed to enhance preparedness for potential maritime disasters.

Simulated Operations

The exercise also included simulated operations targeting illegal activities at sea. This encompassed inspections of suspicious vessels and counter-narcotics operations to combat drug trafficking.

ICG helicopters and aircraft conducted Search and Rescue drills as part of the exercise. They performed Pollution Response demonstrations, External Fire Fighting simulations, and Medical Evacuation exercises to demonstrate operational readiness.

Joint Training and Learning

Members of both Coast Guards participated in joint training sessions. They observed each other’s practices from their respective ships, facilitating knowledge exchange and skill enhancement.

The visit also included crew exchanges, allowing personnel to learn about each other’s ships and operational procedures. A beach cleanup event and a friendly volleyball match encourageed camaraderie among the crews.

Following the sea exercise, the Indian Coast Guard provided a ceremonial farewell to the VCG ship. ICG personnel escorted CSB 8005 out of Indian territorial waters, marking the end of a productive visit.

GKToday Notes:

1. CSB 8005: CSB 8005 is a Vietnam Coast Guard ship. It recently visited Kochi, enhancing cooperation with the Indian Coast Guard through joint exercises and community engagement activities.
2. Sahayog Hop Tac: Sahayog Hop Tac is a maritime exercise. It focuses on security issues, including pollution response and drug trafficking, enhancing operational capabilities of the participating Coast Guards.
3. Pollution Response Demonstration: This demonstration showcased the Indian Coast Guard’s readiness. It involved responding to oil spills and environmental hazards, emphasising the importance of preparedness for maritime disasters.
4. Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is a coastal area in India. It hosted community activities during the visit, such as a beach cleanup and a volleyball match, encouraging camaraderie between crews.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Defence Current Affairs