India, Thailand joint naval exercise ‘CORPAT’ begins today

at 2:24 pm
31st edition of ‘Indo-Thai CORPAT’

NEW DELHI: To further deepen their military and maritime relations, India and Thailand have commenced the two-day bilateral naval exercise ‘Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT)’ today.

“The 31st edition of India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) between the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy is being conducted from June 9–June 11, 2021,” the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

Indian Naval Ship (INS) Saryu, an indigenously built Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel and His Majesty’s Thailand Ship (HTMS) Krabi, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, along with Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both navies are participating in the CORPAT, it said.

Towards reinforcing maritime links between the two countries and with an aim of keeping this vital part of the Indian Ocean safe and secure for international trade, the two navies have been undertaking CORPAT bi-annually along their International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) since 2005.

CORPAT builds up understanding and interoperability between navies and facilitates institution of measures to prevent and suppress unlawful activities like Illegal Unreported Unregulated (IUU) fishing, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery and piracy, the Ministry said.

It further helps enhance the operational synergy by exchange of information for prevention of smuggling, illegal immigration and the conduct of SAR operations at sea.

The Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy have especially enjoyed a close and friendly relationship covering a wide spectrum of activities and interactions, which have strengthened over the years.

The 31st Indo-Thai CORPAT will contribute towards Indian Navy’s efforts to consolidate inter-operability and forge strong bonds of friendship with Royal Thai Navy, the statement read.