On November 18-20, 2020, the 30th edition of India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) between the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy was conducted in Andaman Sea close to the strategic Strait of Malacca.
- The Indian side was represented by Indian Naval Ship (INS) Karmuk, an indigenously built Missile Corvette while Thailand was represented by His Majesty’s Thailand Ship (HTMS) Kraburi, a Chao Phraya Class Frigate along with Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both the navies.
Point to be noted:
–As a part of India’s vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region), the Indian Navy has been involved in assisting countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) with EEZ Surveillance, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and other capability-enhancement activities, on their request.
–India and Thailand also hold an annual bilateral maritime exercise MAITREE since 2006.
–As part of Mission Sagar-II, INS Airavat arrived at Port of Mombasa, Kenya, carrying food aid for the people of South Sudan.
About CORPAT:
Since 2005, both nations have been carrying out CORPAT along their International Maritime Boundary Line twice a year to boost maritime links.
- It’s aim is to keep Indian Ocean safe and secure for commercial shipping and international trade.
- It prevents and suppresses Illegal Unreported Unregulated (IUU) fishing, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery and piracy.
Recent Related News:
i.The naval exercise Malabar is held annually between the troika of India, United States (US), and Japan but this year i.e. the 24th edition of exercise also saw the participation of Australia making it first “quadrilateral” naval exercise excercise.
ii.The 8th Edition of annual Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) bilateral maritime exercise with India, SLINEX-20 was held from October 19-21, 2020 off Trincomalee in Sri Lanka.
About Thailand:
Capital– Bangkok
Currency– Thai baht
Prime Minister – Prayut Chan-o-cha
India’s Ambassador to Thailand– Suchitra Durai
