The seventh edition of the SALVEX exercise, a collaborative Salvage and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) drill between the Indian Navy and the US Navy, recently took place in Kochi. This exercise has been a recurring event since 2005, fostering mutual cooperation and enhancing the capabilities of both naval forces in salvage and diving operations.
Engagement between Indian Navy and US Navy:
The Indian Navy (IN) and the US Navy (USN) have been actively engaging in joint exercises to strengthen their naval cooperation. The SALVEX exercise serves as a platform for both navies to exchange knowledge, conduct joint training exercises, and enhance interoperability.
Active Participation and Specialized Assets:
The SALVEX exercise witnessed the active involvement of naval assets from both countries. INS Nireekshak from the Indian Navy and USNS Salvor from the US Navy, equipped with advanced salvage and diving capabilities, played a vital role in the exercise. These specialized ships provide a crucial platform for conducting salvage operations and diving exercises.
10 Days of Collaborative Training:
SALVEX spanned over a period of 10 days, providing ample time for the diving teams from both countries to engage in joint training exercises. The primary focus was on enhancing the skill sets and capabilities of the diving teams in various aspects of maritime salvage and EOD operations, both on land and at sea.
Sharing Experiences and Enhancing Interoperability:
The exercise offered a valuable opportunity for the diving teams of both countries to share their experiences and best practices in maritime salvage. Through joint training exercises, they honed their skills in diverse disciplines such as mine detection and neutralization, wreck location, and salvage. This exchange of knowledge and expertise fosters greater interoperability between the two navies.
Strengthening Bilateral Defense Cooperation:
SALVEX is part of a broader framework aimed at strengthening the defense cooperation between India and the United States. It complements other joint exercises conducted between the two countries, such as the Malabar Exercise, Exercise Tiger Triumph, and Yudh Abhyas. These exercises serve to deepen the strategic partnership, enhance mutual understanding, and bolster regional security.
Benefits of SALVEX Exercise:
The SALVEX exercise holds several benefits for both navies. It enables them to build a common understanding of salvage and diving operations, exchange technical expertise, and learn from each other’s best practices. The exercise also enhances the readiness and operational preparedness of the diving teams, enabling them to respond effectively to potential maritime contingencies.