The Indian and Russian naval forces are preparing for the Indra 2020 exercise, shifting its location from the regular Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to the Andaman Sea, near the Strait of Malacca. This strait is a significant trade route which connects the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea and stretches over 900 km. The Indian Navy has placed the IOR under high operational alert amidst the ongoing standoff with China in Ladakh.
History and Significance of Indra Series
The inaugural Indra series took place in 2003 and has since been hosted alternately by India and Russia as a bilateral naval exercise. A remarkable development in 2017 was the induction of a joint Tri-Services Exercise. This year’s Indra 2020 has remarkable significance as it’s set to be the first bilateral naval exercise since the suspension of all such engagements due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the timing of Indra 2020 aligns with the Indian Defence Minister’s visit to Russia for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers Meet.
Past Exercises and the ‘China Factor’
Earlier this year, the Andaman Sea was the site of a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) involving frontline warships of the Indian Navy and the USA Navy’s USS Nimitz carrier strike group. Recently, India opted out of the Kavkaz-2020 multinational exercise in Russia, citing restrictions due to the pandemic. However, sources suggest that the participation of Chinese troops was the primary reason behind this decision. In recent years, there has been an ardent monitoring of Chinese Naval ships in the IOR due to a marked increase in their presence under the pretext of Anti-Piracy patrols.
China’s Overseas Military Presence and India’s Strategic Response
In 2017, China established its first overseas military base in Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa. In response to this strategic move and considering its own geographical advantages, India has launched a significant infrastructure expansion plan on the Andaman and Nicobar island chain.
Forthcoming Naval Exercise and its Implications
As we anticipate the forthcoming Indra 2020 naval exercise, it’s crucial to consider its implications towards regional security and international relations. The change in location from IOR to the Andaman Sea, closer to the Strait of Malacca, may well be a calculated strategic decision considering the geopolitical dynamics in the region. Amidst the ongoing tensions with China, India’s active engagement in joint naval exercises could signify its intention to assert its presence and secure its interests in the strategically crucial maritime regions.
While it remains to be seen how these developments transpire, there’s no denying that these exercises offer a unique platform for enhancing cooperation and fostering ties between the Indian and Russian naval forces, besides sending out a strong message to other global players.
Source: TH