New Delhi: The Russian Federation Navy (RuFN) Ships Yaroslav Mudry, Viktor Konetsky and Elyna arrived in Goa on December 10 to participate in INDRA 2019, the second edition of the tri-services exercise between the Indian and Russian Armed Forces. The Naval component of the exercise would be conducted off Goa from December10 to 19.

The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and develop an understanding in order to effectively tackle common security challenges. INDRA initially began as a bilateral naval exercise between the Indian and Russian Federation navies in 2003. The exercise has now assumed a tri-service scope with corresponding maturity and gradual increase in complexity and level of participation.

This year, the naval component of the exercise would be held in two phases. The harbour phase would be held at Goa from December 10 to 15 and encompass planning conferences, professional interactions, cultural visits, sports fixtures and formal calls between Flag Officers and Senior Officers of the participating navies.

The Sea Phase of the exercise would be conducted in the Arabian Sea from December 16 to 19. The focus area for the exercise at sea would be Underway Replenishment, Air Defence Drills, Surface Firings, Visits Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations and other tactical procedures.

Indian Navy would be represented by INS Aditya, a Fleet Support Ship and INS Tarkash, a frontline Guided Missile Frigate. In addition, Dornier and P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft, MIG-29K Fighter Aircraft and other integral rotary wing helicopters would also participate in the exercise. The Indian Army will be fielding a Ghatak Platoon in the validation exercise on December 18, while an assortment of SU-30 MKI, Jaguar, Mi-17 helicopters and an Airborne Warning & Control System (AWACS) aircraft will be participating from the Indian Air Force.

Tri Services Ex INDRA 2019 would help further strengthen mutual confidence and interoperability and also enable sharing of best practices between the Armed Forces of both countries. The exercise will be yet another milestone in strengthening security cooperation and will serve to reinforce the long-standing bond of friendship between India and Russia.