MARCH 4:As part of the ongoing training deployment of the First Training Squadron (1TS) to South East Asia, three key ships of the Indian Navy, INS Shardul, INS Sujata, and ICGS Veera, arrived at Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand on 01 March 2025. This marks a significant moment in the bilateral maritime cooperation between India and Thailand. Upon their arrival, the ships received a warm and cordial welcome from the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), accompanied by the fanfare of the RTN band. The ceremonial reception underscored the strength of the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations.
Senior Officer of the First Training Squadron, Captain Anshul Kishore, along with the Commanding Officers of the ships, paid a visit to Rear Admiral Suwat Donsakul, the Commander of the Third Naval Area Command. During their meeting, discussions focused on regional security, avenues for joint training exercises, and fostering goodwill activities. These discussions are vital to strengthening the collaborative ties between India and Thailand in the realm of maritime security.
A reception was hosted aboard the First Training Squadron for the senior leadership of the Royal Thai Navy, diplomats, and members of the Indian Diaspora. This event served as a platform to celebrate the enduring relationship between the two navies and nations, furthering diplomatic and military ties. The visit also provided an opportunity to engage in a range of dynamic and constructive activities designed to enhance operational synergy between the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy.
The planned engagements during this port call are designed to promote mutual understanding and interoperability between the two forces. These include professional interactions, yoga sessions, cross-training visits, friendly sports fixtures, and a Naval band performance, fostering camaraderie between personnel. A key highlight of the visit will be the Passage Exercise (PASSEX), aimed at improving joint operational readiness and enhancing cooperation in maritime operations.
The Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy have maintained a close and friendly relationship, which has only grown stronger over the years. The visit of the First Training Squadron to Phuket serves as a powerful reaffirmation of this bond. It is expected to reinforce regional security initiatives and enhance the two navies’ ability to operate together in the increasingly complex maritime environment. Through this visit, both navies aim to strengthen their partnership and work toward a more secure and prosperous maritime domain in the region.