Press Release

Indo-Thai Coordinated Patrol in the Andaman Sea

                 The Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy conducted the 17thCycle of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in the Andaman Sea from 13 to 18 November 2013 to counter piracy, poaching and arms smuggling. The Indian Navy was represented by the Indian Naval Ship (INS) BITRA while HTMS SRIRACHA represented the Royal Thai Navy. One Dornier Aircraft each of the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy also participated in the joint exercise. The closing ceremony of the 17thCORPAT was held in Phuket from 19-20 November 2013. Captain TV Sunil led the Indian Delegation in the closing ceremony.

2. During the CORPAT, the participating forces of two Navies carried out a number of joint exercises and exchanges to enhance inter-operability. The first CORPAT between the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy was held in 2005. The subsequent series of Coordinated Patrols have enhanced mutual confidence levels between the two Navies and have contributed to the effective implementation of the Law of the Sea to prevent illegal activities.

3. Apart from joint maritime patrols, India-Thailand Defence cooperation includes regular joint exercises, training of officers at each other’s Armed Forces training institutions and exchange visits at various levels.

(Bangkok- 21 November 2013)

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