New Delhi (Agency): INS Sumedha, an Indian Navy ship, arrived in Port Alexandria, Egypt on September 6, 2023, to be a part of ‘Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23’. This military event is the largest joint exercise ever conducted in the Middle East and North Africa region and involves 34 countries.
BRIGHT STAR-23 will take place in two phases. The first phase, known as the ‘Harbour Phase,’ includes activities like professional exchanges, sports fixtures, and planning sessions. The second part, the ‘Sea Phase,’ will have complex drills involving live weapon firing and anti-surface and anti-air exercises.
This event gives the Indian Navy a chance to improve and show its ability to work with other navies. It also allows India to learn from the best practices in maritime security operations of its partner nations. This is the first time the Indian Navy is taking part in Exercise BRIGHT STAR, and it shows India’s commitment to global stability and maritime security.
INS Sumedha is led by Commander MC Chandeep and is the third ship of India’s home-built Saryu class Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPV). These ships can operate for long periods and are fitted with the necessary weapons and sensors. They can also carry a helicopter. This shows the skill of the Indian shipbuilding industry and supports the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat,’ which means ‘Self-Reliant India.’
The exercise will last for two weeks and will include intense operations and training. The goal is to make sure that the navies from different countries can work together as one team. This will highlight their shared aim to keep the seas safe and stable through training and mutual understanding.
INS Sumedha’s participation in Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23 marks a significant step for India in global military cooperation. It not only shows the capabilities of the Indian Navy but also emphasizes India’s role in maintaining global peace and stability.
