RSN press release
The RSN participated in the exercise with two Formidable-class frigates RSS Intrepid and RSS Steadfast (embarked with an S-70B naval helicopter), and the Endurance-class landing ship tank RSS Endeavour. The IN participated with the Rajput-class destroyer INS Rana (embarked with a Chetak helicopter), Kamorta-class corvette INS Kamorta, Kora-class corvette INS Karmuk, Sindhughosh-class submarine INS Sindhuraj, and a P8I maritime patrol aircraft. During the exercise, the two navies executed gunnery firings, manoeuvring drills, communication exercises and advanced naval warfare serials, including anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare drills.
Commenting on the successful completion of the exercise, Commanding Officer of RSS Intrepid, Lieutenant Colonel Oh Zongbo said, “Despite not being able to meet face-to-face, we continued to drill in a wide range of naval warfare serials, such as anti-submarine operations that require close coordination between ships, helicopters and maritime patrol aircraft. The ability to execute these complex drills is a result of the good understanding and coordination that our navies have established over the years.“
SIMBEX was incepted in 1994 and is one of the RSN’s longest-running bilateral exercises. This year marks the 27th edition of the exercise, which underscores the strong and long-standing defence ties between both countries. Over the years, SIMBEX has grown in scope and complexity, expanding beyond conventional naval warfare to include elements of maritime security.
