Inside SIMBEX-2026: How India and Singapore Are Boosting Indian Ocean Security

The Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) have concluded the 33rd edition of their bilateral maritime exercise SIMBEX-2026 in Visakhapatnam, with naval warfare drills and professional exchanges aimed at improving coordination between the two forces.

Hosted by the Indian Navy from October 21 to 26, the exercise was conducted in two phases, covering harbour-based engagements and operational activities in the Bay of Bengal, according to the Eastern Naval Command.

During the harbour phase, personnel from both navies participated in subject matter expert exchanges, cross-deck visits, professional interactions, sporting engagements and planning conferences. These activities provided opportunities to share operational knowledge and discuss procedures followed by the two forces.

The sea phase featured maritime interdiction operations, anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare and anti-surface warfare drills. It also included seamanship evolutions and cross-deck flying operations designed to strengthen coordination and operational interoperability during maritime missions.

Singapore participated with RSS Supreme, a Formidable-class stealth frigate carrying an embarked SH-70B helicopter. The Indian Navy deployed the indigenously built stealth frigate INS Nilgiri, anti-submarine warfare corvette INS Kamorta, and aviation assets including P-8I and Dornier maritime patrol aircraft, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers and MH-60R helicopters.

As part of the bilateral engagement, Colonel Bertram Ang, Fleet Commander of the RSN, called on Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Fleet. The two officials exchanged views on strengthening maritime cooperation and discussed matters of mutual interest.

First conducted in 1994 as Exercise Lion King, SIMBEX has developed into a key bilateral naval engagement between India and Singapore. Over successive editions, its scope and operational complexity have expanded, supporting professional exchanges and greater familiarity between the participating forces.

The exercise forms part of broader maritime cooperation between the two countries, which maintain interests in maritime security and stability across the Indian Ocean Region. Regular naval engagements provide opportunities for both forces to practise coordinated responses to maritime challenges.

The Eastern Naval Command said SIMBEX-2026 reaffirmed the longstanding naval partnership between India and Singapore and their commitment to enhancing maritime security and regional stability.