Two Indian Naval Ships, namely Delhi and Shakti, reached Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia on Sunday as part of the Indian Navy’s Operational Deployment. The Royal Malaysian Navy and the High Commission of India in Malaysia warmly greeted the Indian naval ships.
In a statement, the Indian Navy stated, “Two Indian Naval ships Delhi and Shakti under the command of R Adm Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet arrived at Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia as part of the Indian Navy’s Operational Deployment. The ships were accorded a warm welcome by the Royal Malaysian Navy and the High Commission of India in Malaysia.”
While at port, members of the Indian and Malaysian Navies will participate in various professional engagements, including Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) sessions, yoga, sports events, and cross-deck visits. These activities are intended to enhance the existing mutual cooperation and understanding between the two nations’ Navies, as stated by the Indian Navy.
Upon concluding the port visit, the Indian Navy vessels will engage in a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX)/PASSEX at sea alongside ships from the Royal Malaysian Navy. The exercise aims to boost interoperability between the two Navies, a commitment reaffirmed during the MILAN 2024 and Ex Samudra Lakshmana 2024 exercises.
In a statement, the Indian Navy stated, “This visit will further strengthen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two maritime neighbours through a series of engagements and activities. The deployment of the Indian Naval ships to this crucial region also highlights the Indian Navy’s steadfast commitment to the ‘Act East’ and SAGAR policies of the Government of India.”
As per the statement, INS Delhi is the inaugural indigenously designed and constructed Project-15 class guided missile destroyer, while INS Shakti serves as a Fleet Support Ship. Both vessels are integral components of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet.
Recently, Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Shakti, and Kiltan wrapped up a four-day visit to Singapore from May 6 to 9. The visit focused on bilateral engagements, exploring areas of mutual interest and cooperation, and reaffirming the dedication to bolster maritime security and stability in the region.
“This visit is part of the Operational Deployment of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet to the South China Sea,” the Ministry of Defence said in a statement. Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, along with the Commanding Officers of the ships, engaged in discussions with the Fleet Commander of the Republic of Singapore Navy at the Singapore Naval Headquarters.
“The visit provided an opportunity for discussions on enhancing naval cooperation and interoperability between navies of both India and Singapore. A deck reception was hosted onboard INS Shakti, wherein personnel from both navies and the Indian diaspora in Singapore, and also local diplomatic community, had the opportunity to interact, furthering the bonds of friendship and mutual respect,” Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
The Ministry of Defence also mentioned that local children were invited to tour the Indian ships as part of the Indian Navy’s dedication to maritime education and outreach.
“The children were given guided tours of the ships, where they learned about naval operations, India’s rich maritime history and heritage and also the importance of maritime security. These interactions aim to inspire the younger generation and promote a greater understanding of maritime affairs. Personnel from both the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy also undertook cross-ship visits and Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE), in addition to other professional interactions,” it said.