The 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) is taking place at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam (Vizag) till October 29. The exercise consists of two phases: the Harbour Phase, which runs from October 23 to 25, and the Sea Phase, scheduled for October 28 to 29 in the Bay of Bengal.

The opening ceremony for SIMBEX 2024 was held on October 24 aboard INS Shivalik, attended by units from the Eastern Fleet and the Singapore Navy.

Originally launched as ‘Exercise Lion King’ in 1994, SIMBEX has grown into a crucial maritime collaboration between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). The Republic of Singapore Navy Ship RSS Tenacious, equipped with an embarked helicopter, arrived in Visakhapatnam on October 23 to participate in the exercise.

This year’s SIMBEX aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Singapore by improving interoperability, enhancing maritime domain awareness, and fostering cooperation to tackle common maritime challenges. The Harbour Phase features subject matter expert exchanges, cross-deck visits, sports activities, and pre-sail briefings for personnel from both navies. Meanwhile, the Sea Phase will include advanced naval drills, such as live weapon firings, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training, anti-surface and anti-air operations, seamanship evolutions, and tactical maneuvers.

The exercise is expected to bolster naval ties and ensure greater maritime security in the region.

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