Clearing mines, securing ports & more: India-US navies' specialised Kochi exercise

The Indian and US navies initiated a five-day specialized bilateral exercise in Kochi, focusing on Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) at the Southern Naval Command. The exercise, concluding on August 14, aims to enhance interoperability between the two navies in this critical area of maritime operations. The eighth edition of the exercise includes subject matter expert exchanges, cross-training sessions, equipment demonstrations, and scenario-based drills.

These activities provide specialists from both sides the opportunity to compare notes on mine clearance and defusing underwater explosives, which are crucial for harbors and safe vessel passage in contested waters. The ongoing conflict in the west Asia has heightened the importance of these skills due to the Iranians' claim of mining the Strait of Hormuz, responsible for approximately 20% of global oil and gas supply.

Additionally, ensuring the safety of India's ports and coastal infrastructure against asymmetric threats, including terrorist attacks, becomes paramount. With nearly 95% of India's trade by volume and 70% by value passing through maritime routes in the Indian Ocean, this exercise offers an opportunity for both navies to benchmark their EOD and diving capabilities against a partner with extensive experience in deploying these teams in expeditionary settings.

The exercise emphasizes sharing methodologies, new technologies, and best practices to foster collaborative learning and improve operational synergy. Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan is currently on a four-day visit to Mauritius as part of India's efforts to strengthen ties in the Indian Ocean Region. During the visit, Admiral Swaminathan will engage with senior Mauritian leadership on maritime security, defense cooperation, and capability building, reflecting India's outreach to island nations in the region as part of Prime Minister Modi's MAHASAGAR approach.