Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron Visits Singapore to Boost ASEAN–India Maritime Cooperation

Singapore, January 17: The Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) arrived at Changi Naval Base, Singapore, as part of its training deployment to the South East Indian Ocean Region, marking a significant step in strengthening maritime cooperation between India and Southeast Asian nations.

The squadron, comprising INS Tir, INS Shardul, INS Sujata and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi, reached Singapore on January 15. The visit assumes special importance as 2026 is being observed as the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation, reflecting growing regional collaboration in maritime security and training.

During the port call, personnel from the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy will participate in a range of professional engagements, including structured training exchanges, harbour activities and operational interactions aimed at enhancing mutual capabilities. Joint yoga sessions and friendly sports fixtures are also planned to foster camaraderie between trainees of both navies.

The visit includes cultural outreach, with performances by the Indian Naval Band at public venues in Singapore. The ships will also be opened to school children, promoting maritime awareness and people-to-people connections.

Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr Shilpak Ambule, interacted with the trainees, while senior officers of the squadron held discussions with the Maritime Training and Doctrine Command. Engagements with the Information Fusion Centre and community outreach programmes further highlighted the collaborative spirit of the visit.

The deployment reinforces India’s commitment to its Act East Policy and underscores its leadership role in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). It also reflects India’s broader vision of MAHASAGAR, aimed at ensuring collective maritime security and growth across the region.