Indian Naval Ships Satpura and Kadmatt are visiting Sasebo, Japan from 12th to 15th October 2017. The visit of these ships is in line with India’s Act East Policy and reiterating of India’s commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.
PASSEX with Japan:
During this visit, INS Satpura and INS Kadmatt will engage with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) in formal calls, as well as social and sporting interactions.
- The two Indian naval ships will also take part in Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Murusame Class destroyer, JS Kirisame.
About Indo-Japan Maritime Relations:
‘Navy to Navy Staff Talks’ between Japan and India started in November 2008. Since then, the two navies have taken part in several bilateral as well as multilateral exercises and have developed enhanced cooperation in information sharing, meteorology and oceanography, disaster management and military training.
- Cooperation with Japanese Navy also includes bilateral defence training cooperation, at very senior levels.
- Besides, Navy personnel from India and China participate in seminars and short term exchange programs which are conducted regularly in both countries. These activities are aimed at enhancing interoperability and understanding.
- Currently, security interaction between India and Japan encompass Defence Policy Dialogue and a Maritime Affairs Dialogue.
Indo-Japan Bilateral and Multilateral maritime exercises:
Strong naval relations between India and Japan can be ascribed to regular bilateral and multilateral maritime exercises.
- Prior to 2014, navies of both the countries held Japan – India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX). Since 2014, Japan has been participating in the ‘MALABAR’ exercise which has now become a tripartite naval exercise between India, the US and Japan.
- Both the navies have also participated in each other’s International Fleet Reviews (IFR) by deputing ships and high level delegations.
Quick Facts about Japan
- Capital – Tokyo
- Currency – Japanese yen
- Current Prime Minister – Shinzo Abe
