Indian Navy training squadron calls at Singapore under Act East Policy

Ships of the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron, comprising INS Tir, INS Shardul, INS Sujata and the Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi , are engaged in an extensive programme of training, professional and social activities during their port call in Singapore.

The four ships arrived on January 15 as part of a Long Range Training Deployment to Southeast Asia and will remain in port until January 18. The Indian High Commission said the visit reflects the growing importance of maritime engagement between India and Singapore under India’s Act East Policy , while also coinciding with 2026 being celebrated as the ASEAN India Year of Maritime Cooperation .

The deployment forms a key component of the 110th Integrated Officers’ Training Course , which aims to provide officer trainees with comprehensive operational and cross-cultural exposure. After completing the Singapore leg, the squadron is scheduled to undertake subsequent port calls in Indonesia and Thailand , further strengthening India’s maritime presence in the region.

The First Training Squadron plays a crucial role in training officer cadets of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and friendly foreign countries, offering hands-on experience in seamanship, navigation, ship handling and maritime operations. The current course includes six international officer trainees from Maldives, Myanmar and Vietnam , along with personnel from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force , enhancing jointness among the three services.

During the stay in Singapore, the squadron undertakes structured professional interactions and training exchanges with the Republic of Singapore Navy , along with visits to local institutions. These engagements are aimed at improving interoperability, mutual trust and the exchange of best practices between the two friendly navies.

As part of cultural outreach, the Indian Navy Band performed at Our Tampines Hub and is scheduled to present the Laharika Indian Naval Band concert at the Global Indian International School, carrying India’s message of goodwill and friendship to Singapore’s citizens and the large Indian diaspora.

The high commission said the visit underlines the Indian Navy’s emphasis on training excellence, maritime diplomacy and a cooperative approach to regional maritime security , reinforcing India’s vision for a free, open and inclusive Indian Ocean Region and the wider Indo Pacific.