Indian and Italian Navies Conduct Historic Joint Exercise
The Indian and Italian Navies recently completed a significant maritime exercise off the West Coast of India. This joint exercise, which took place from October 1 to October 6, marked the first time Carrier Strike Groups (CSG) from both nations participated together. CSGs are versatile naval forces capable of operating in various conditions, making them crucial for naval operations.
Harbour and Sea Phases
The exercise began with a harbour phase that included expert exchanges and professional interactions, along with a Pre-Sail Planning Conference involving the Indian Air Force. The sea phase occurred on October 5 and 6, led by the carriers INS Vikramaditya and ITS Cavour, along with INS Visakhapatnam and ITS Alpino.
Intense Operations
During the sea phase, the CSGs conducted intense operations with fighter aircraft and helicopters. These operations included large force engagements, air combat missions, helicopter operations, and search and rescue missions. The exercise also featured coordinated weapon firings and joint maneuvers, highlighting the command and control capabilities and interoperability of the two navies.
Bridges of Friendship
The exercise, titled ‘Bridges of Friendship,’ emphasized the strong relationship between India and Italy, which extends across various sectors, including defense and culture. The Indian Air Force played a key role, participating in maneuvers with Italian CSG aircraft.
Doubts Revealed
Carrier Strike Groups (CSG) -: A Carrier Strike Group is a large naval fleet that includes an aircraft carrier, its accompanying ships, and aircraft. It is used for military operations at sea.
INS Vikramaditya -: INS Vikramaditya is a large aircraft carrier in the Indian Navy. It serves as a floating airbase and is one of the most powerful ships in the Indian fleet.
ITS Cavour -: ITS Cavour is an aircraft carrier in the Italian Navy. Like INS Vikramaditya, it carries aircraft and is used for naval operations.
Harbour phase -: The harbour phase is the part of a naval exercise that takes place at a port. It involves planning, training, and sharing knowledge between the navies before going to sea.
Sea phase -: The sea phase is the part of the naval exercise that takes place in the ocean. It involves actual naval operations and maneuvers with ships and aircraft.
Interoperability -: Interoperability means the ability of different military forces to work together effectively. It is important for joint exercises to ensure smooth cooperation.
Indian Air Force -: The Indian Air Force is the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces. It is responsible for defending Indian airspace and conducting aerial warfare.