Amidst escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, India is actively reinforcing its strategic partnerships through naval deployments and exercises. As part of its ongoing operational deployment to Southeast Asia, with a keen focus on China's assertive behavior, the Indian Navy has dispatched three warships to the Philippines, while another is engaged in war games with the Singapore Navy.
Leading the flotilla in Manila, Rear Admiral Susheel Menon, commander of the Eastern Fleet, highlighted the shared commitment of India and the Philippines to maintaining regional stability and enhancing maritime security. He emphasized that these deployments play a crucial role in fostering understanding, trust, and cooperation among friendly maritime forces.
The three warships in Manila, namely the guided-missile destroyer INS Delhi, the anti-submarine warfare corvette INS Kiltan, and the fleet tanker INS Shakti, will participate in a bilateral naval exercise with the Philippine Navy. This exercise will encompass joint maneuvers and communication protocols, aimed at improving preparedness, building mutual trust, and strengthening operational synergy in the maritime domain. Notably, this joint maritime drill coincides with the Philippine President's official visit to India, underscoring the growing defense ties between the two nations. Moreover, this deployment marks India's first joint patrol with the Philippines in the contested waters of the South China Sea. This coordinated patrol is viewed by analysts as a demonstration of a united front with Manila amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea.
Separately, the stealth frigate INS Satpura is participating in the 32nd edition of the Simbex exercise with the Singapore Navy. This exercise exemplifies the strong and enduring maritime partnership between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). The exercise involves a comprehensive array of advanced naval operations, including air defense exercises, cross-deck helicopter operations, precision targeting with surface and aerial platforms, complex maneuvering drills, and visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) operations.
India's engagement with Southeast Asian countries extends beyond naval exercises. India has also been actively pursuing defense deals with ASEAN countries. Following a $375 million contract to supply BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines in January 2022, India has been in discussions to export arms to other countries like Indonesia and Vietnam. In addition to the BrahMos missiles, which are developed jointly with Russia, India also intends to sell the indigenous Akash air defense missile systems to countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
These deployments and defense collaborations are a testament to India's proactive "Act East" policy, aimed at strengthening friendships, promoting maritime security, and playing a larger role in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region. By engaging in joint drills, building trust, and enhancing interoperability with its maritime neighbors, India is demonstrating its commitment to a secure and cooperative Indo-Pacific.
