The Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) successfully concluded its port visit to Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand, on 28 January 2026, with a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) conducted alongside HTMS Huahin. The visit marked another significant step in deepening India–Thailand maritime cooperation and reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to regional security and partnership-building in the Indo-Pacific.
The squadron comprised INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Sarathi.
Bilateral Engagements Strengthen Navy-to-Navy Cooperation
During the harbour phase, personnel from the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) participated in a wide range of professional and cultural engagements. These included:
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Professional exchanges between officers
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Training interactions and discussions on naval practices
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Social and cultural activities aimed at strengthening camaraderie
These engagements further reinforced institutional trust and operational understanding between the two navies.
High-Level Interactions on Maritime Security and Training
Captain Tijo K. Joseph, Senior Officer of 1TS, accompanied by the Commanding Officers of the visiting ships, called on Vice Admiral Veerudome Muangchean, Commander of the 3rd Naval Area Command (NAC), Royal Thai Navy.
Discussions focused on:
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Regional maritime security challenges
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Training philosophies and methodologies of the Royal Thai Navy
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Expanding avenues for enhanced joint training and cooperation
This dialogue reflected the shared commitment of both navies to ensuring stability and security in the region.
Training Exchanges and People-to-People Connect
As part of the visit, sea trainees of 1TS visited the 3rd Naval Area Command and Phang Nga Naval Port, gaining exposure to RTN operations and infrastructure.
In a reciprocal gesture, RTN personnel were hosted onboard INS Sujata, where they were familiarised with:
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The roles and capabilities of the First Training Squadron
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Operational procedures and training practices
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Opportunities for mutual learning and exchange of best practices
These interactions provided valuable experiential learning for young officers and trainees from both sides.
Cultural Engagements and Community Outreach
Beyond professional exchanges, the visit featured several people-centric initiatives that strengthened interpersonal bonds:
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A combined yoga session
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Friendly sports fixtures between Indian Navy and RTN personnel
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An onboard reception co-hosted by the Indian Embassy in Thailand and the Senior Officer, 1TS
The reception was attended by senior RTN leadership, members of the Indian diaspora, diplomats, and other distinguished guests, reflecting the broader diplomatic significance of the visit.
Strengthening MAHASAGAR Vision
The successful port call underscored India’s commitment to advancing maritime cooperation under the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). The engagement highlighted the Indian Navy’s role as a reliable partner in promoting collective security, capacity building, and regional stability.
Conclusion
The visit of the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron to Phuket Deep Sea Port has further consolidated the strong friendship between the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy. Through operational exercises, professional dialogue, and cultural exchanges, the engagement has laid a stronger foundation for future cooperation, reinforcing India’s growing maritime partnerships in the region.
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Source: PIB
