Operational Sea Training of South African Ship SAS Mendi Conducted by Indian Navy Team

In a collaborative effort between the Indian Navy and the South African Navy (SAN), an eight-member team from Headquarters Sea Training (HQST), Indian Navy, led by Cmde Amit Gurbuxani, Chief Staff Officer to Flag Officer Sea Training, conducted Operational Sea Training and Safety Audit of SAS Mendi at Simons Town from 02 to 13 Oct 23.

The training comprised two phases. The harbour training phase included lectures and interactive sessions covering various aspects such as pilotage, bridgework, emergency handling, Force Protection Measures, fire-fighting & damage control drills, Operational Risk Management, electrical & engineering best practices, and seamanship training. Additionally, the bridge team received dedicated training in a ship handling simulator.

During the sea training phase, the ship embarked on two sea sorties with HQST and SAN OST teams. These sorties provided practical training on subjects practiced during the harbour phase. Exercises at sea emphasized precise navigation, force protection drills, boat drills, emergencies & breakdown drills, and the conduct of damage control & fire fighting.

The interaction between the IN and SAN OST teams facilitated an exchange of experiences and best practices. The Operational Sea Training culminated in a combined debrief, offering observations, recommendations, and guidance for implementing good practices.

A ceremony on board SAS Mendi on 13 Oct 23 marked the successful conclusion of this joint training initiative. This pioneering effort by HQST has forged new avenues for training collaboration between the Indian Navy and the South African Navy, significantly enhancing the professional relationship between the two maritime forces.