Indian and South African Navies Ink Pioneering Safety Agreement

The Indian Navy and South African Navy have signed an Implementing Agreement (IA) to enhance bilateral naval cooperation, ensuring safety during submarine distress. Co-chaired talks focused on operational synergy and future collaboration, further solidifying the maritime relationship between the two nations.

In a significant milestone to develop bilateral naval cooperation, the Indian Navy and the South African Navy have signed an Implementing Agreement (IA) to ensure the safety of the South African Navy's submarine crew during distress or accidents. This agreement was inked by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, and Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, Chief of the South African Navy, according to a press release from the Ministry of Defence.

The Implementing Agreement emphasizes a mutual commitment to maritime safety and support. Under the agreement, the Indian Navy will deploy its Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) when needed, enhancing collaborative ties. This partnership bolsters the longstanding maritime relationship between India and South Africa. The release noted that the 12th India-South Africa Navy Staff Talks were held in New Delhi on August 27-28, 2024, to further enhance inter-naval cooperation.

Co-chaired by Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna of the Indian Navy and Rear Admiral David Maningi Mkhonto of the South African Navy, the talks focused on bolstering naval ties and operational synergy. Future cooperation discussions covered pivotal areas such as operational training and secure information exchange between platforms.

The talks also addressed evolving maritime complexities, discussing continued exchanges and exercises like IBSAMAR (India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime Exercise). Dialogues included exchanging best practices in Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defence and Damage Control (NBCD), and diving support through Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE). Emphasis was placed on personnel exchanges and potential advanced training courses.

(With inputs from agencies.)