26th Cycle Ind-Indo CORPAT Held in Andaman

The close defence relations between India and Indonesia have been growing steadily with regular joint activities and exchanges of personnel between the Armed Forces of the two countries. Under the broad ambit of this Strategic Partnership, Indonesian Navy and the Indian Navy have been carrying out coordinated patrolling twice a year since 2002 near the International Maritime Boundary Line to keep this vital part of the Indian Ocean region safe and secure for commercial shipping and international trade.

The aim of the co-ordinated exercise is to enhance mutual understanding and inter-operability between the navies, prosecute vessels engaged in unlawful activities like illegal fishing, drug trafficking, gun running and smuggling.

The 26th edition of India-Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) was conducted from 3rd Oct to -19th Oct 2015. The Indonesian Navy was represented by an anti submarine corvette, KRI Teuku Umar 385 and a Maritime Patrol aircraft CN 235 whilst INS Saryu and one IN Dornier represented the Indian Navy. INS Saryu and IN Dornier had visited the port of Belawan, Indonesia from 30th Sep to 3rd Oct 15 to participate in the Opening Ceremony. Vice Admiral Pradeep Kumar Chatterjee PVSM, AVSM, NM, Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command witnessed the Opening Ceremony accompanied by Commodore Deepak Kumar Naval Component Commander. The opening ceremony was followed by three phases of patrolling by both the navies.

The maiden Bilateral Exercise between the Indian and Indonesian navies was conducted from 17 - 18 Oct 2015. The exercises included SAR Operation, Tactical Exercise, VBSS Drills, Surface Firing, Aircraft and Helicopter Operation.

The exercise culminated with a closing ceremony held at Port Blair from 19 to 22 Oct 15 under the aegis of the Commander in Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command. A high level Indonesian delegation headed by Rear Admiral Achmad Taufiqoerrochman M., S.E, Commander-in-Chief, Western Fleet Command visited the Andaman and Nicobar Command for the closing ceremony.

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