S'PORE, INDIA HOLD NAVAL EXERCISE

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Indian Navy (IN) held their annual naval exercise from 16 to 29 Mar in the Bay of Bengal.

In a first, this year's Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) featured a combined surface-to-air missile live-firing by the two navies.

SIMBEX, which started as anti-submarine warfare drills, has grown in scope and complexity over the years. It now consists of advanced naval warfare exercises covering the air, surface and sub-surface dimensions.

The RSN and IN share long-standing ties. Besides SIMBEX, both navies interact regularly through exchange programmes, forums and courses.