The visit of Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS)—comprising INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Sarathi—to Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand, concluded successfully with a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) in the company of HTMS Huahin on 28 Jan 26.
During the harbour phase, a wide range of bilateral activities were undertaken between the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), including professional exchanges, training interactions, and social engagements further strengthening Navy-to-Navy ties.
Captain Tijo K Joseph, Senior Officer, 1TS, along with the Commanding Officers of visiting ships, called on VAdm Veerudome Muangchean, Commander, 3rd Naval Area Command (NAC), RTN. Discussions focused on regional maritime security, training philosophies of RTN, and avenues for enhanced joint training between the two Navies.
Sea trainees of 1TS visited the 3rd Naval Area Command and Phang Nga Naval Port. In addition, RTN personnel were hosted onboard INS Sujata and familiarised with the roles and capabilities of 1TS, providing valuable opportunities for training interaction and exchange of Best Practices.
Other highlights of the visit included a combined yoga session and friendly sports fixtures between personnel of both Navies. An onboard reception, co-hosted by the Indian Embassy and the Senior Officer, 1TS, was attended by senior RTN leadership, members of the Indian diaspora, diplomats, and other distinguished guests.
The visit reinforced the strong bonds of friendship between the two Navies and underscored Indian Navy’s commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation with regional partners, in line with the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).