First Training Squadron Strengthens Bilateral Relations During Port Louis Visit

The First Training Squadron (1TS), composed of INS Tir and CGS Sarathi, successfully concluded its visit to Port Louis, Mauritius, as part of their Long Range Training Deployment.

The visit, coinciding with the 57th Mauritius National Day celebrations, underscored the profound maritime connections between India and Mauritius. Notably, a naval contingent and a helicopter participated in the Mauritius National Day city parade, graced by Smt. Droupadi Murmu, the Hon'ble President of India, as the Chief Guest.

The visit proved highly beneficial for Indian Naval trainees, who had the opportunity to visit the Maritime Air Squadron and Police Helicopter Squadron of Mauritius. As part of a cross-
training initiative, personnel from the National Coast Guard of Mauritius received training on small arms handling and firefighting aboard 1TS ships. The visit culminated in PASSEX (Passage Exercise) and VBSS (Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure) exercises, further bolstering interoperability between the two navies. Joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)  surveillance was also conducted by 1TS in collaboration with the Mauritius Coast Guard Dornier before entering Port Louis.

This visit underscores the shared commitment to regional security and emphasizes the deep cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Mauritius. It serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations through mutual cooperation and engagement in maritime affairs.