Indian, Indonesian navies conclude joint patrol

New Delhi (MI) : The 24th edition of Indian-Indonesian Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) has concluded, an official statement said Wednesday, adding the defence relations between the two countries is growing.

"The close defence relations between Indian and Indonesia have been growing steadily with regular joint activities and exchanges of personnel between the armed forces of the two countries," a statement said Wednesday.

The exercise, which started Sep 9, concluded Tuesday.

CORPAT is a joint patrolling exercise held twice a year by the two countries.

Indonesian Navy (Tentara National Indonesia Angkatan Laut) and the Indian Navy have been carrying out coordinated patrolling twice a year since 2002 near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) to keep this vital part of the Indian Ocean region safe and secure for commercial shipping and international trade.

"The aim of the co-ordinated exercise is to enhance mutual understanding and inter-operability between the navies, prosecute vessels engaged in unlawful activities, conduct SAR and take measures against sea pollution," the statement said.

In the exercise, naval ship KRI Pattimura and maritime patrol aircraft CN 235 represented the Indonesian Navy while INS Kesari (with Chetak integral helicopter) and one IN Dornier participated from the Indian Navy.

First Admiral Harjo Susmoro, Commander Sea Task Force, Western Fleet Command headed the Indonesian delegation.

Pattimura entered Port Blair along with INS Kesari Sep 27 to attend Closing Ceremony on completion of sea phase of joint exercise.

CN 235 aircraft with senior officer embarked arrived at Port Blair Sep 28. The Indonesian delegation called on Vice Admiral P.K. Chatterjee, Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command during their visit.

Sumber : Delhinews