The 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) began on October 23, 2024, at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam. Running until October 29, this annual exercise highlights the growing naval cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). SIMBEX 2024 is being conducted in two phases, focusing on boosting maritime security, operational skills, and fostering strategic ties between both nations.
SIMBEX 2024: Key Features
- Phases: The exercise is divided into two phases – the Harbour Phase (Oct 23-25) and the Sea Phase (Oct 28-29).
- Host: Eastern Naval Command, Indian Navy, Visakhapatnam.
- Participants: Indian Navy’s INS Shivalik and RSN’s RSS Tenacious, among others.
Phases of SIMBEX 2024
Harbour Phase: Visakhapatnam (October 23-25)
During this phase, the two navies engage in a series of activities that enhance collaboration and understanding:
- Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs): Knowledge-sharing sessions on naval operations.
- Cross-deck Visits: Crew members explore each other’s ships to understand operational practices.
- Sports and Cultural Events: Friendly matches and cultural activities build camaraderie.
- Pre-Sail Briefings: Discussions on safety and exercise objectives.
Sea Phase: Bay of Bengal (October 28-29)
The Sea Phase involves advanced naval drills in the Bay of Bengal, with joint operations designed to improve tactical skills and coordination:
- Live Weapon Firings: Simulation of real-time combat scenarios.
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): Exercises for countering underwater threats.
- Anti-Surface and Anti-Air Operations: Drills to improve defense mechanisms.
- Seamanship Evolutions: Tactical maneuvers to enhance joint responses.
History and Significance of SIMBEX
SIMBEX began in 1994 as “Exercise Lion King” and has evolved into a critical platform for India-Singapore naval cooperation. It remains the longest-running bilateral maritime exercise for the Indian Navy, highlighting the strategic partnership between the two nations. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, SIMBEX continued, underlining its importance.
SIMBEX 2024: Strengthening Defence Cooperation
This year’s exercise follows the 6th India-Singapore Defence Ministerial Dialogue held on October 22, 2024, in New Delhi, attended by Singapore’s Defence Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen. India and Singapore also have ongoing joint military training exercises, demonstrating their broad defense ties.
Overview of SIMBEX 2024
| Event | Details |
| Exercise Name | Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) |
| Edition | 31st |
| Host Country | India |
| Location | Visakhapatnam & Bay of Bengal |
| Phases | Harbour (Oct 23-25), Sea (Oct 28-29) |
| Participants | Indian Navy (INS Shivalik), RSN (RSS Tenacious) |
| Previous Edition (2023) | Hosted by Singapore |
News Summary:
- The 31st edition of SIMBEX is underway in Visakhapatnam and Bay of Bengal.
- Exercise phases: Harbour (Oct 23-25) and Sea (Oct 28-29).
- Key activities: Tactical drills, knowledge-sharing, and live weapon firings.
- Reinforces India-Singapore strategic naval partnership.
- Ongoing defense collaborations, including the Defence Ministerial Dialogue and other joint military exercises.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
SIMBEX 2024 is the 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise, showcasing naval cooperation between the Indian Navy and Republic of Singapore Navy.
SIMBEX 2024 is held from October 23 to 29, 2024, at Visakhapatnam (Harbour Phase) and the Bay of Bengal (Sea Phase).
The exercise includes knowledge-sharing sessions, tactical drills, live weapon firings, anti-submarine warfare, and friendly sports events.
SIMBEX started in 1994 as “Exercise Lion King” and has grown into the longest-running bilateral maritime exercise for the Indian Navy.
SIMBEX enhances India-Singapore defense ties, promotes maritime security, and improves operational interoperability between the two navies.
The Indian Navy’s INS Shivalik and the Republic of Singapore Navy’s RSS Tenacious are the key vessels participating this year.
Yes, SIMBEX 2024 follows the India-Singapore Defence Ministerial Dialogue and is part of broader joint defense exercises between the two countries.