'Exercise IBSAMAR' between India, South Africa, Brazil begins tomorrow

PANAJI: The fifth edition of ' Exercise IBSAMAR' between Brazil, India and South Africa begins tomorrow off the country's west coast with the harbour phase being conducted at Goa.

This is the first time that 'Exercise IBSAMAR' is being conducted in Indian waters and it will conclude on February 29. All previous editions were held off South Africa, Navy said in a release.

The primary aim of this exercise is to increase interoperability amongst the three navies as well as develop common understanding and procedures for maritime security operations, it said.

"Initiated in 2006, 'Exercise IBSAMAR' is the most visible manifestation of this convergence of democratic values, economic interests and maritime cooperation.

"The scope of 'Exercise IBSAMAR-V' includes wide-ranging professional interactions during the harbour phase and a diverse range of operational activities at sea during the sea phase," the release added.

The thrust of exercises at sea this year would be on anti-submarine warfare (ASW), surface firings, air defences, visit board search and seizure (VBSS), flying operations, search and rescue and tactical procedures.

During 'Exercise IBSAMAR-V', the Indian Navy will be represented by INS Mumbai - an indigenous designed and built guided missile destroyer -, INS Trishul - a stealth frigate - and INS Shalki, a Shishumar class submarine.

In addition, various fast attack craft, Sea Harriers and Mig 29K fighter aircraft, dornier maritime patrol aircraft and integral rotary wing helicopters are also scheduled to participate in the trilateral exercise.

The Brazilian Navy would be represented by Brazilian Naval Ship Amazonas, with embarked special forces, commanded by Commander Alessander Felipe Imamura Carneiro.

The South African Navy would be represented by South African Naval Ship SAS Spioenkop with integral helicopter and embarked special forces, Commanded by Captain MA Boucher.

Both the ships are on return passage after participating in the International Fleet Review held at Visakhapatnam earlier this month.