Indian Navy's First Training Squadron Sails From Colombo After Strategic Drill
Indian Navy's First Training Squadron completes a strategic port call in Colombo, including a PASSEX with the Sri Lankan Navy.
The Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS) has officially departed from Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking the end of a successful port call focused on strengthening maritime ties and operational synergy. The squadron, which includes INS Tir, INS Sujata, and the Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi, left the Sri Lankan shores on October 29 to continue its extensive long-range training deployment.
Strengthening Ties Through PASSEX
The highlight of the visit was a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) conducted at sea with the Sri Lankan Navy ship SLNS Nandimithra. This tactical exercise was specifically designed to improve operational coordination and interoperability between the two maritime forces, ensuring that both navies can work seamlessly together in the region.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the exercise allowed for coordinated maritime manoeuvres, reinforcing the shared commitment of India and Sri Lanka toward regional maritime cooperation and capacity building. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
Professional Exchange and Cadet Interactions
Beyond the tactical drills, the port call served as a platform for professional growth and academic exchange. Key highlights included:
- Academy Visits: Sea trainees from the First Training Squadron visited the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA) in Trincomalee, where they engaged with their Sri Lankan counterparts.
- Reciprocal Learning: In a gesture of mutual cooperation, Sri Lankan Navy cadets visited the Indian ships to explore their training facilities and learn about the operational activities of the Indian Navy.
- High-Level Engagements: The Senior Officer of the First Training Squadron, along with the Commanding Officers of the ships, met with the Commander of the Western Naval Area of the Sri Lanka Navy to reaffirm bilateral ties.
Community Outreach and Environmental Action
The visit extended beyond military circles to involve the local community and promote sustainability. Indian Navy personnel took part in a beach clean-up drive to champion environmental sustainability in the coastal region.
Additionally, the ships were opened to the public, welcoming members of the local Sri Lankan community and the Indian diaspora. These open-ship visits allowed civilians to interact with the crew and gain a firsthand look at the training and operational capabilities of the Indian Navy.
A Broader Regional Deployment
The stop in Colombo is part of a wider strategic deployment. Prior to arriving in Sri Lanka, the First Training Squadron concluded a three-day port call at Malé, Maldives, on October 24. During that visit, the squadron conducted a PASSEX with the Maldives Coast Guard Ship Imaduddin and engaged in professional interactions with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), which included a blood donation camp as part of its community outreach.