Navies of India and Singapore Successfully Conclude SIMBEX 2025

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Indian Navy have successfully concluded the latest edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX), held from July 28 to August 1, 2025. This year’s edition, marking the 32nd SIMBEX since its inception in 1994, showcased the deepening defence partnership between the two nations as they also celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations.

Shore Phase: Strengthening Bonds on Land

The shore phase of SIMBEX 2025 was held at RSS Singapura-Changi Naval Base. Activities included,

• Joint planning sessions to refine operational coordination
• Simulator training to prepare for complex maritime scenarios
• Professional exchanges on Maritime Air Operations and Compliant Boarding Procedures
• Sports events to enhance people-to-people ties between personnel

Sea Phase: Power and Precision in the South China Sea

• The sea phase, conducted in the southern reaches of the South China Sea, featured joint operations by both navies and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).
• The RSN deployed RSS Supreme (Formidable-class frigate), RSS Vigilance (Victory-class missile corvette), and support ship MV Mentor.
• The Indian Navy participated with INS Satpura, a Shivalik-class frigate.
• Aerial support came from an S70B naval helicopter, two Fokker-50 maritime patrol aircraft, and two F-15SG fighter aircraft from the RSAF.

Key exercises included,

• Gunnery firing drills
• Air-defence exercises
• Maritime security operations

The phase concluded with a sail-past, symbolizing unity and successful cooperation.

Enduring Strategic Partnership

SIMBEX reflects the long-standing bilateral ties between the two navies. Over the years, the exercise has expanded in complexity, covering the air, surface, and sub-surface domains.

Apart from SIMBEX, both navies also engage regularly through,

• Professional exchanges
• Staff talks
• Training courses