Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet Ships Complete Port Call at Manila During Operational Deployment in Southeast Asia
As part of its ongoing operational deployment in Southeast Asia, the Indian Navy has successfully concluded a port call in Manila, Philippines. The visit involved the guided missile destroyer INS Delhi, fleet tanker INS Shakti, and anti-submarine warfare corvette INS Kiltan, all under the command of Rear Admiral Susheel Menon. During their stay, the ships engaged in a bilateral maritime exercise with the Philippine Navy, enhancing cooperation and strategic ties between the two nations.
High-Level Diplomatic Engagements
Rear Admiral Susheel Menon, the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, met with several senior leaders of the Philippine military and government. Notable interactions included discussions with Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C Orbe, Commander of the Philippine Fleet, and Lieutenant General Jimmy D Larida, Vice Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. These meetings highlighted the strengthening strategic partnership between India and the Philippines, focusing on a shared vision for a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order and enhancing maritime collaboration.
Cultural and Professional Exchanges
A deck reception hosted aboard the INS Shakti provided a platform for further interactions among dignitaries, including the Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, Shri Harsh Kumar Jain. This event aimed to foster goodwill and strengthen ties between India and the Philippines. The visit also included professional exchanges such as cross-deck visits and subject matter expert exchanges, which facilitated the sharing of best practices and operational planning. A bilateral maritime exercise conducted at sea showcased high levels of coordination through tactical maneuvers and communication drills, reinforcing operational synergy between the two navies.
Community Outreach and Engagement Activities
The Indian Navy’s ships were open for visits from personnel of the Philippine Navy, government officials, students, and members of the Indian community. These interactions aimed to promote maritime awareness and showcase the Indian Navy’s professionalism and technological capabilities. Additionally, Indian Navy personnel visited the Friendship Home Father Luis Amigó Orphanage in Manila, spending time with the children and reinforcing bonds of compassion and goodwill. Friendly sports events between the two navies added an informal yet impactful dimension to the visit, fostering camaraderie and mutual respect.
Significance of the Port Call
The port call to the Philippines marked a significant milestone in enhancing the maritime partnership between India and the Philippines. Through high-level diplomacy, operational engagement, cultural exchanges, and community outreach, the Indian Navy has reaffirmed its role as a reliable maritime partner. The collaborative efforts aim to promote peace, stability, and shared progress in the Indo-Pacific region. The bilateral exercise, conducted from July 30 to August 4, included both harbor and sea phases, featuring anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine drills, further solidifying the operational capabilities of both navies.
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