Navy’s INS Tir takes part in naval drill in Seychelles

16 Navies participate in Exercise Cutlass Express-24

◗ TRAINING WAS conducted on theoretical and practical aspects of maritime interdiction operations, visit board search and seizure procedures, and diving operations

As part of engaging naval forces in the Indo-Pacific, the Indian Navy participated in naval exercise in Seychelles. Along with India, some 16 Navies participated in Exercise Cutlass Express-24 (CE-24) in Port Victoria.

“INS Tir, the lead ship of First Training Squadron (1TS), participated in Exercise Cutlass Express held at Port Victoria, Seychelles, from February 26 to March 8,” a senior official said on Sunday.

The exercise was inaugurated by the President of the Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan in the presence of dignitaries from India, the USA and African countries. As part of Cutlass Express, the Navy actively engaged with participants from 16 friendly foreign countries. Training was conducted on theoretical and practical aspects of maritime interdiction operations, visit board search and seizure procedures, and diving operations.

During the sea phase, the ship’s VBSS team boarded Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG) ship LE Vigilant and demonstrated procedures for boarding operations. Indian divers, along with the US and Seychelles divers, undertook joint diving operations after a rigorous training week. The ship hosted R. Adm. Calvin M. Foster, deputy commander of the US Navy 6th Fleet, who shared his views on the importance of maritime cooperation and shared commitment in the region, appreciating the crucial role played by the Indian Navy. The exercise culminated at a closing ceremony held at the Seychelles Defence Academy, Ile Perseverance, on March 8. The Indian Navy has been participating in the exercise since 2019.

Earlier, INS Tir undertook joint EEZ surveillance with the Seychelles Coast Guard. During the ship’s stay at Seychelles, as part of long-range training deployment, professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, and friendly sports fixtures were held with Seychelles defence forces.