SIMBEX-2026 Begins in Visakhapatnam

Why in News?

The 33rd edition of the Singapore–India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX-2026) commenced in Visakhapatnam on 21 October 2026.The exercise will continue until 26 October 2026 and will be conducted in two stages—the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase.The Sea Phase will be conducted in the Bay of Bengal and will involve maritime operations and tactical exercises between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy.

What is SIMBEX?

• SIMBEX stands for the Singapore–India Maritime Bilateral Exercise.
• It is a bilateral naval exercise conducted between:
  • The Indian Navy; and
  • The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).
• The exercise aims to strengthen:
  • Professional relations between the two Navies;
  • Mutual understanding;
  • Operational interoperability; and
  • Cooperation in addressing maritime security challenges.
• Interoperability refers to the ability of the two Navies to coordinate and operate effectively with each other.

What are the Key Facts about SIMBEX-2026?

Which Naval Ships are Participating?

• RSS Supreme: The Republic of Singapore Navy Ship arrived in Visakhapatnam to participate in the exercise.
• INS Nilgiri and INS Kamorta: The opening ceremony of SIMBEX-2026 was conducted onboard these Indian naval ships.

The opening ceremony was attended by:

• The Chief Staff Officer (Operations) of the Eastern Naval Command;
• The Fleet Commander of the Republic of Singapore Navy; and
• Senior officers from both Navies.

How will SIMBEX-2026 be Conducted?

SIMBEX-2026 will be conducted in two phases.

What Activities will be Conducted during the Harbour Phase?

The Harbour Phase will include:

• Professional interactions: Naval personnel will exchange operational knowledge and experiences.
• Subject Matter Expert Exchanges: Specialists from both Navies will discuss specific areas of maritime operations.
• Cross-deck visits: Naval personnel will visit the ships of the participating Navy.
• Sporting engagements: Sports activities will encourage interaction and professional friendship.
• Planning conferences: Officers will prepare and coordinate activities for the Sea Phase.

What Exercises will be Conducted during the Sea Phase?

The Sea Phase will be held in the Bay of Bengal from 24 to 26 October.

It will include:

• Anti-Submarine Warfare: Exercises designed to detect and respond to underwater threats.
• Anti-surface Warfare: Drills involving operations against surface vessels.
• Anti-air Warfare: Exercises relating to aerial threats.
• Seamanship Evolutions: Activities testing ship handling and professional naval skills.
• Tactical Manoeuvres: Coordinated movements and operational formations by participating ships.

These exercises will test the ability of the two Navies to coordinate during complex maritime operations.

Conclusion

SIMBEX-2026 represents the growing maritime partnership between India and Singapore. The Harbour Phase promotes professional interaction, while the Sea Phase develops operational coordination through complex naval exercises.By hosting the exercise in Visakhapatnam and the Bay of Bengal, India and Singapore have reaffirmed their commitment to maritime interoperability, common security interests and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.