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Key Points

The Italian Navy destroyer ITS Caio Duilio conducted a passage exercise with the Indian Navy's INS Surat in the Indian Ocean. This marked the first close coordination between Indian Navy and European Union forces under Operation ASPIDES. The exercise included maneuvering drills, radio exchanges, and simultaneous flight operations to enhance interoperability. Both navies demonstrated a shared commitment to maritime security in strategically important waters.

Key Points: Italian Navy Caio Duilio and INS Surat Conduct Indian Ocean PASSEX

  • First-time close coordination between Indian Navy and EU forces in Operation ASPIDES
  • Exercise included maneuvering drills and simultaneous flight operations
  • Aims to protect merchant vessels and enhance maritime situational awareness
  • Strengthens mutual understanding and operational readiness between navies
2 min read

Italian Navy's Caio Duilio conducts passage exercise with INS Surat in Indian Ocean

Italian destroyer ITS Caio Duilio and Indian Navy INS Surat held a joint passage exercise in the Indian Ocean, enhancing interoperability and maritime security cooperation.

"Cooperation with the Indian Navy represents a fundamental step to strengthen collective security along strategic sea lines of communication - Rear Admiral Andrea Quondamatteo"

Brussels, September 9

The Italian Navy destroyer ITS Caio Duilio, currently participating in the European Union's Naval Operation ASPIDES, conducted a passage exercise (PASSEX) with the Indian Navy destroyer INS Surat in the Indian Ocean, the EU said in a statement.

The exercise, held under the command of the Force Commander of Operation ASPIDES, Rear Admiral Andrea Quondamatteo, was carried out, for the first time, in close coordination between the Indian Navy and European Union forces. It marked a significant opportunity to enhance operational interoperability, reinforce professional naval ties, and demonstrate a shared commitment to maritime security in strategically important waters.

According to the EU Statement, the engagement with the Indian Navy aligns with the primary objectives of Operation ASPIDES, which are to support the freedom of navigation by protecting merchant vessels and to enhance maritime situational awareness across critical sea lanes such as the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Sea of Oman, the Gulf, and the northwestern Indian Ocean.

The PASSEX included manoeuvring and tactical drills, radio and data exchanges, simultaneous flight operations, and other training activities for the crew, enhancing operational readiness and strengthening mutual understanding.

Force Commander noted that "Cooperation with the Indian Navy represents a fundamental step to strengthen collective security along strategic sea lines of communication and to promote a shared and combined approach to freedom of navigation and regional stability. In this vein, the maritime flow of goods between Europe and the Indo-Pacific, through the shortest route of the Red Sea, assumes global relevance for the prosperity and livelihood of our society. Therefore, having India and Europe on each other's side is key to peace, stability, and growth."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone working in international trade, I appreciate these efforts. Secure sea lanes are crucial for our exports and imports. Good cooperation between India and EU benefits global trade.
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Priya S
INS Surat representing India! 🚢 So proud of our naval forces. These exercises are important but I hope we're also focusing on developing our indigenous defense capabilities.
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Arjun K
While cooperation is good, we must ensure that such partnerships don't compromise our strategic autonomy. India should always put its national interests first in these engagements.
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Vikram M
The Indian Navy has come a long way! From protecting our coasts to now conducting joint exercises with European navies. This shows our growing global stature. 👏
M
Michael C
Interesting development. The Red Sea route is indeed critical for global trade. Hope this cooperation leads to safer passage for commercial vessels in the region.

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