On February 6, 2025, the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS), comprising INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, arrived at Changi Naval Base in Singapore. This visit is part of their Long-Range Training Deployment to Southeast Asia, aiming to strengthen maritime cooperation and foster mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).
During the port call, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, the High Commissioner of India to Singapore, visited the 1TS ships. He was briefed on the squadron’s training activities and interacted with the sea trainees, emphasizing the crucial role of the Indian Navy in enhancing maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Senior officers from the squadron also met with Colonel Rinson Chua Hon Liat, Commander of Maritime Training and Doctrine (MTDC), to discuss maritime issues of mutual interest.
The visit includes various activities designed to enhance cooperation and interoperability between the two navies, such as professional exchanges, cross-training visits, and friendly sports fixtures. This engagement underscores the commitment to Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and reinforces the strong maritime partnership between India and Singapore.
Changi Naval Base, officially known as RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base, is a state-of-the-art facility of the Republic of Singapore Navy. Located approximately 3.5 kilometers east of Singapore Changi Airport, the base was officially opened on May 21, 2004. It features extensive berthing spaces capable of accommodating large vessels, including aircraft carriers, and is often used by visiting ships from various navies, reflecting Singapore’s strategic importance in regional maritime security.