The fifth edition of SITMEX-25, a trilateral maritime exercise involving the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), Indian Navy, and Royal Thai Navy, commenced on Nov 23 at Changi Naval Base. The annual exercise aims to bolster maritime cooperation, enhance interoperability, and strengthen the collective capability of the three navies to promote regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.
Hosted this year by RSN, SITMEX-25 kicked off with a three-day Harbour Phase (Nov 23–25) at Changi Naval Base. The opening ceremony was followed by a series of cross-deck visits, professional exchanges, and friendly sporting fixtures designed to foster mutual understanding and camaraderie among participating personnel.
These activities serve as a crucial platform for building trust and teamwork before joint operations at sea.
The Sea Phase, scheduled from November 26 to 29, will take place along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). During this phase, warships and maritime aircraft from the three nations will execute complex manoeuvres, coordinated tactical drills, and communication exercises.
These joint operations aim to demonstrate seamless cooperation, reinforce shared maritime interests, and showcase a unified commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
India is represented by the INS Karmuk, an indigenously built Kora-class corvette, as part of the Indian Navy’s contribution to SITMEX-25.
The coordinated exercises also serve to enhance operational synergy among the participating navies and reflect their dedication to ensuring maritime safety, regional stability, and mutual trust.
The exercise will conclude with a Closing Ceremony onboard RSS Dauntless in Phuket, Thailand, on Nov 29, celebrating the successful completion of this week-long engagement and the enduring maritime partnership among the three nations.
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9 Aug 2025 21:05
