Indian Navy’s submarine INS Vagir, part of the Kalvari class, embarks on an extended deployment, reaching Fremantle, Australia on August 20, 2023. Commissioned in January 2023, it engages in exercises with Royal Australian Navy units, bolstering Indo-Australian naval cooperation. Alongside, Indian Naval ships and aircraft participate in Exercise MALABAR 23 and AUSINDEX 23 on Australia’s East coast.
The deployment highlights the Indian Navy’s operational reach and endurance, showcasing its ability for sustained operations at extended distances from base ports. The maiden Australian deployment underscores India’s submarine capabilities and professional prowess.
What to study for prelims?
- INS Vagir: A submarine of the Indian Navy, belonging to the Kalvari class, commissioned in January 2023, and currently engaged in an extended deployment to Australia.
- Kalvari Class: A class of submarines in the Indian Navy, named after the first Indian submarine, INS Kalvari that are designed for various naval operations, including anti-submarine warfare.
- Extended-Range Deployment: A prolonged operational mission of a naval vessel or aircraft that involves covering substantial distances from its base port or location.
- Royal Australian Navy (RAN): The naval warfare branch of the Australian Defence Force, responsible for naval operations and maritime security.
- Exercise MALABAR 23: A joint naval exercise involving Indian Naval ships and aircraft, along with international partners, conducted to enhance naval cooperation and readiness.
- AUSINDEX 23: A bilateral naval exercise between the Indian Navy and Royal Australian Navy aimed at promoting interoperability and enhancing maritime security.
- Anti-Submarine Exercises: Drills and training focused on detecting, tracking, and countering submarines to ensure maritime security and dominance.