AMN/ WEB DESK
Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), interacted with cadets of the King Fahd Naval Academy, Saudi Arabia, who are undergoing sea training at the Southern Naval Command (SNC) in Kochi.The 55 cadets of the Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF) along with five Directing Staff are attached with the First Training Squadron ships, INS Tir and INS Sujata, as part of their afloat training with the Indian Navy.The CNS was apprised of the ongoing harbour and afloat training activities, including familiarization sea sorties. He was also briefed on the progress made by the trainees within the training period.As part of the training curriculum, simulator training was undertaken for the cadets prior to embarking for the sea training phase. The cadets have completed 10 days at sea aboard the Indian Naval Ships. During the sea sorties, they were exposed to rigorous training on practical aspects of navigation and seamanship, with emphasis on navigation in pilotage waters, anchoring, coastal navigation, replenishment at sea, sea boats, firefighting and emergency drills. A two-day harbour training on sail training ship INS Sudarshini is also planned to familiarize them with the rigors of life onboard a sail ship.
Emphasising the close relations and cooperation between the two navies, the CNS reaffirmed that the joint exercises, staff talks and training exchanges with the RSNF have progressed well over the years and signify the strong bond between the two navies. He also brought out that both countries share similar views with regard to maritime security and closely operate with each other towards ensuring safe and secure seas in the region.
Earlier this month Indian Navy and the Royal Saudi Naval Force conducted a joint naval exercise in the Arabian Sea in May 2023. The exercise, called Al-Mohed Al-Hind, was the second such exercise between the two navies.The exercise involved ships, aircraft, and personnel from both navies. The ships practiced a variety of maritime operations, including surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and search and rescue. The aircraft practiced air-to-air refueling and maritime surveillance.