new delhi, Sept 9
Indian Navy’s destroyer, INS Surat, undertook a joint exercise with European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR), featuring the Italian Navy destroyer ITS Caio Duilo, in the Indian Ocean recently.
In a statement issued, EUNAVFOR stated that on 7 September, the ships from both the countries participated in the passage exercise (PASSEX) conducted by the European Union’s Naval Operation ASPIDES.
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, the release read.
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 maneuvering and tactical drills, radio and data exchanges, simultaneous flight operations, and other training activities for the crew, enhancing operational readiness and strengthening mutual understanding, the statement claimed.
Speaking about the joint exercise, the Force Commander said, “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.”
