First Training Squadron (1TS) of Indian Navy sailed on a Long-Range Training Deployment (LRTD) to Southeast Asia, reinforcing India’s sustained maritime engagement with region. The deployment forms part of the 110th Integrated Officers’ Training Course (IOTC) and aligns with India’s Act East Policy and vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Participating Ships
The squadron comprises:
- INS Tir – Training Ship
- INS Shardul – Amphibious transport dock (logistics & sealift)
- INS Sujata – Training Ship
- ICG Ship Sarathi – Offshore patrol/training vessel of the Indian Coast Guard
Objectives of Deployment
- Provide comprehensive operational and cross-cultural exposure to officer trainees.
- Enhance professional naval training through real-world sea time and port interactions.
- Strengthen maritime diplomacy and goodwill with Southeast Asian partners.
- Improve interoperability through joint activities and exchanges.
- Reinforce India’s commitment to freedom of navigation and regional maritime stability.
Training & Professional Engagements
During the deployment, the squadron will undertake:
- Cross-deck visits and ship familiarisation.
- Training exchanges with host navies and maritime agencies.
- Interactions with subject-matter experts.
- Joint maritime partnership exercises to share best practices at sea.
Port Calls (Southeast Asia)
Scheduled diplomatic and training port calls include:
- Singapore
- Indonesia
- Thailand
These visits underline India’s cooperative approach to regional maritime security and capacity building.
Course & Personnel Highlights
- The 110th IOTC includes six international officer trainees, showcasing India’s role as a regional hub for professional military education.
- Indian Army and Indian Air Force personnel are embarked, strengthening jointness and inter-services cohesion.
- Emphasis on training excellence, leadership development, and multinational exposure.
Strategic & Policy Significance
- Act East Policy: Deepens engagement with Southeast Asia through sustained naval presence.
- Indo-Pacific Vision: Supports a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
- Maritime Diplomacy: Builds trust, interoperability, and cooperative security frameworks.
- Operational Reach: Demonstrates India’s capacity for long-range naval deployments.