The Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS), consisting of INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, called Changi Naval Base in Singapore from February 6 to 9, 2025. The purpose of this visit was to strengthen collaboration in maritime security and training between the two nations.
During the visit, Captain Anshul Kishore Senior Officer of 1TS, met with Colonel Rinson Chua Hon Liat, the Commander of the Maritime Training and Doctrine Command. They discussed ways to improve joint training programs and future operational cooperation. Dr. Shilpak Ambule, the High Commissioner of India to Singapore, also visited the company and showed the Indian Navy’s efforts in making international friendships through maritime cooperation.
A special wreath-laying ceremony was held at the Kranji War Memorial to honor fallen soldiers, highlighting the historical connections between India and Singapore.
To encourage stronger people-to-people ties, naval trainees from India and Singapore participated in friendly sports matches, fostering teamwork and goodwill. The trainees also visited the Information Fusion Center (IFC) and the Changi Regional Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Coordination Center (RHCC), which gave them an understanding of regional maritime security operations. Also, a tour of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) Museum provided them with a deeper knowledge of Singapore’s marine legacy.
As part of the Indian Navy’s dedication to community service, a lunch was arranged at the Sree Narayana Old Age and Nursing Home. Schoolchildren from Yuva Bharti and Delhi Public School, Singapore, were also allowed to visit the squadron’s ships, where they interacted with naval personnel and learned about life at sea.
The visit ended with a grand reception aboard the company’s ships, attended by ambassadors, RSN officers, delegates and members of the Indian community in Singapore. This successful visit highlights the growing maritime partnership between India and Singapore, aligning with India’s strategic policies like ‘Neighbourhood First,’ ‘Act East,’ and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). (PR)