Naval Exercise IBSAMAR 2016 between India, South Africa, Brazil kicked off in Goa

The fifth edition of IBSAMAR 2016 trilateral naval exercise between Brazil, India and South Africa kicked off in Goa. IBSAMAR is abbreviated as India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime.
This is the for the first time the exercise is held in India as all the previous editions were held in South Africa since it began in 2006.
Key facts

• This trilateral naval exercise aims at increasing (i) Interoperability among navies of three countries (ii) Common understanding maritime security between them.
• This edition of IBSAMAR naval exercise will be conducted two phases namely Harbour phase and Sea Phase.
• During harbour phase, wide range of professional interactions will be undertaken and during Sea Phase diverse range operational activities will be conducted off Goa coast.
• The thrust of the exercises will be on anti-submarine warfare (ASW), air defence, flying operations, surface firing, search and rescue and tactical procedures.
• Indian navy is represented by INS Mumbai– a missile destroyer, INS Shalki– a Shisuhumar class diesel electric submarine and INS trishul– a stealth frigate.
• The Brazilian Navy is represented by Brazilian Naval Ship (BNS) Amazonas embarked with Special Forces.
• South African Navy is represented by SAS Spioenkop with integral helicopter and embarked with Special Forces.

Comment

• The IBSAMAR trilateral naval exercise epitomises the strong long-term strategic relationship between the three democracies and vibrant economies.
• It represents the most visible manifestation of convergence of democratic values, economic interests and maritime cooperation.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2016