NEW DELHI: As part of its ongoing training deployment to Southeast Asia, the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) reached Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand, on March 1. The squadron comprises INS Shardul, INS Sujata, and ICGS Veera, which were received with a warm welcome by the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), accompanied by a ceremonial performance from the RTN band.
INS Sujata, INS Shardul and ICGS Veera of No 1 Training Squadron of Indian Navy are on their operational deployment at Phuket from 1-4 March 2025. During this visit, the crew of Indian Navy ships will conduct various professional activities with the 3rd Naval Area Command of the… pic.twitter.com/VPiHszkFSy
— India in Thailand (@IndiainThailand) March 2, 2025
The senior officer of 1TS, Captain Anshul Kishore, along with the Commanding Officers of the ships, called on Rear Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Commander of the Third Naval Area Command. The discussions focused on regional security, potential avenues for joint training exercises, and goodwill activities to enhance maritime collaboration between the two nations.
Strengthening Maritime Cooperation
During the port call, the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy will engage in a range of professional and cultural exchanges aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties. The planned activities include:
- Professional interactions between officers and crew members
- Joint training exercises to improve operational interoperability
- Yoga sessions promoting cultural exchange and wellness
- Cross-training visits for knowledge sharing
- Friendly sports fixtures fostering camaraderie
- A naval band performance to celebrate the historic ties between the two nations
- Passage Exercise (PASSEX) to enhance naval coordination
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High-Level Engagements and Diplomatic Reception
To further bolster diplomatic relations, a special reception was hosted onboard the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron. The event witnessed the presence of senior officials from the Royal Thai Navy, diplomats, and distinguished members of the Indian diaspora in Thailand. The reception provided an opportunity to discuss future avenues of collaboration and deepen the maritime partnership between India and Thailand.
India-Thailand Naval Relations
The Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy share a longstanding relationship, characterized by mutual respect and cooperation. Over the years, both navies have actively engaged in joint exercises, maritime security initiatives, and humanitarian assistance missions. This port call further reinforces their strategic alignment, fostering a better understanding and enhanced interoperability between the two naval forces.
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The visit of the First Training Squadron underscores India’s commitment to strengthening regional maritime security and fostering defense diplomacy in Southeast Asia. As the deployment continues, both nations are expected to explore further opportunities for collaboration, ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
