Coast Guard personnel of India, Vietnam hold joint sea exercises

Vietnam and Indian Coast Guard ships engaged in a joint exercise, off Kochi. 

Vietnam Coast Guard ship CSB 8005 departed Kochi on Friday (December 20), after a visit that strengthened the partnership between the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

The four-day visit aimed to enhance maritime cooperation and interoperability between the two forces. A key highlight was a comprehensive sea exercise code-named ‘Sahayog–Hop Tac’, conducted off the coast of Kochi. The exercise addressed critical maritime security challenges and included various scenarios, such as a pollution-response demonstration. ICG ships and aircraft showcased their expertise in managing oil spills and other environmental hazards at sea.

The exercise also included Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations to inspect vessels suspected of illegal activities and counter drug interdiction measures, according to a release. Search and Rescue (SAR) drills, external firefighting simulations, and medical evacuation by helicopter were conducted using ICG helicopters and Dornier aircraft. Joint training sessions also focused on neutralising asymmetric threats.

To foster better understanding, crew members from both countries boarded each other’s vessels as observers. The exchange provided an opportunity to observe operations from different perspectives and adopt best practices.

The Vietnamese vessel’s visit to Kochi underscored the growing collaboration between the two Coast Guards. Through their joint efforts, they are working towards ensuring a safer and more secure maritime environment. Following the conclusion of the sea exercise, the Indian Coast Guard bid the visiting ship a ceremonial farewell, adhering to maritime customs and traditions, and escorted the vessel to the territorial waters.

The VCG ship arrived in Kochi on December 16 as part of its ongoing overseas deployment to India. During its stay, activities such as a beach clean-up drive at Fort Kochi and a friendly volleyball match were organised, official sources said.

Published – December 20, 2024 07:36 pm IST

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