First ever naval exercise between India, Australia concludes

VISHAKAPATNAM: The first ever naval exercise between India and Australia that focused on anti-submarine warfare concluded here today.

The excercise, AusIndex brought together ships and aircraft from both countries to strengthen defence co-operation under the Framework for Security Cooperation announced by the Australian and Indian Prime Ministers last year.

Head, Navy Capability of the Australia, Rear Admiral Jonathan Mead said the relationship between the two militaries was strategically significant.

"India remains one of Australia's key security partners in the Indian Ocean and Asia-Pacific. We have mutual interests in promoting peace and prosperity in the region," he was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Australian Embassy in New Delhi.

Three Royal Australian Navy vessels and a Royal Australian Air Force AP-3C made the passage to India for the inaugural biennial exercise.

Australian ships Sirius, Arunta and Sheean successfully trained with Indian Navy ships Shivalik, Ranvijayi and Shakti, along with P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft during the week-long activity.

The exercise started with briefings and practical demonstrations ashore, before progressing to sea for surface and anti-submarine warfare and coordinated anti-submarine exercises.

The excercise is expected to be held every two years.