New Delhi: The Indian Navyโs First Training Squadron (1TS), comprising INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, successfully concluded its visit to Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand, reinforcing bilateral naval cooperation between India and Thailand.
The visit culminated with coordinated tactical maneuvers and sea rider exchanges during PASSEX (Passing Exercise) with the Royal Thai Navyโs (RTN) HTMS Huahin on March 4, 2025. The exercise aimed at improving interoperability and strengthening maritime security collaboration.
Strengthening India-Thailand Naval Diplomacy
During the port stay, multiple professional interactions and training visits were conducted between the Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy. Senior Officer of 1TS, Captain Anshul Kishore, along with the commanding officers of INS Shardul, INS Sujata, and ICGS Veera, met with Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Commander of the 3rd Naval Area Command. Discussions focused on regional security, joint training opportunities, and strategic cooperation.
The Indian sea trainees visited key Thai naval facilities, including the 3rd Naval Area Command, Phangna Naval Port, and HTMS Krabi, where they engaged in training interactions and shared best practices with their Thai counterparts.
People-to-People Engagements and Cultural Exchange
The visit also emphasized people-to-people diplomacy, with:
- A guided tour of Indian naval ships for schoolchildren, RTN personnel, and the Indian diaspora
- A combined yoga session and friendly sports matches between Indian and Thai naval officers
- A grand naval band concert at Patong Beach, drawing large crowds of tourists and locals
- A formal onboard reception, co-hosted by the Indian Embassy and Senior Officer 1TS,
attended by senior RTN officials, diplomats, and prominent members of the Indian community in Thailand
Expanding Maritime Cooperation Under SAGAR Initiative
The visit reinforces Indiaโs commitment to strengthening regional maritime security under the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative. As the Indian Navy expands its strategic partnerships, such exchanges bolster defense diplomacy, operational coordination, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The successful completion of 1TSโs Thailand visit highlights Indiaโs deepening naval ties with its Southeast Asian neighbors, ensuring enhanced maritime security and cooperation in the region.
