From October 6 to 8, India and Japan held the 5th edition of the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) in the Arabian Sea.
The exercise saw ships and planes from the Indian Navy (IN) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) engage in a high-tempo of operations focused on the air, surface, and sub-surface dimensions of maritime operations, as well as the air domain. Under the command of Rear Admiral Ajay Kochhar, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, the indigenous guided-missile destroyer INS Kochi (with Sea King MK 42B helicopter) and the guided-missile frigate INS Teg (with SAR capable Chetak chopper) represented the Indian Navy. A P8I, a shore-based maritime surveillance aircraft, and MiG 29K fighters were also engaged by the Indian Navy. The JMSDF’s Escort Flotilla Three, led by Commander RAdm IkeuchiIzuru, consists of the Izumo Class Helicopter Carrier Kaga and the Guided Missile Destroyer Murasame. Both ships have inbuilt SH60K helicopters on board. The forces practiced a War at Sea scenario right from the outset, with P8I (IN) providing maritime reconnaissance support to both navies. Between Kaga and Kochi, the units practiced replenishment at sea approaches and fuel rig connect-up.
Complex Over the Horizon Targeting training and surface gunshots on an expendable target was also part of the exercise.
Surface forces and the Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft exercised with perfect synchronisation during an advanced coordinated anti-submarine exercise including an undersea target deployed by JMSDF. In the true spirit of military brotherhood, Flag Officers from the two forces also met on the flight decks of Kochi and Kaga during flying operations.
Source: ANI
