India-Japan maritime exercise 'JIMEX' to be conducted from October 6

The fifth edition of the India-Japan Maritime Bilateral Exercise (JIMEX) will be conducted in the Arabian Sea from October 6-8.

JIMEX-21 aims to develop a common understanding of operational procedures and enhance inter-operability through the conduct of a multitude of advanced exercises, across the entire spectrum of maritime operations. Multi-faceted tactical exercises involving weapon firings, cross-deck helicopter operations and complex surface, anti-submarine and air warfare drills will consolidate coordination developed by the two navies, the Ministry of Defence informed in a statement.

Indigenously built guided missile stealth destroyer 'Kochi' and guided-missile frigate 'Teg', under the command of Rear Admiral Ajay Kochhar, who is the flag officer commanding the western fleet will represent the Indian Navy.

The Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force will be represented by JMSDF ships Kaga, an Izumo Class Helicopter Carrier and Murasame, a Guided Missile Destroyer, led by Rear Admiral IkeuchiIzuru, Commander Escort Flotila - 3 (CCF-3). In addition to ships, P8I Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, integral helicopters and MiG 29K fighter aircraft will also participate in the exercise.

Naval cooperation between India and Japan has increased in scope and complexity over years. JIMEX-21 will further enhance the cooperation and mutual confidence between the two navies and fortify the long-standing bond of friendship between the two countries, the Defence Ministry informed.

The exercise will be conducted between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). JIMEX series of exercises were commenced in January 2012 with a special focus on maritime security cooperation. The last edition of JIMEX was conducted in September 2020.

( With inputs from ANI )

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor