The 33rd edition of the Singapore‑India maritime bilateral exercise (Simbex‑2026) commenced in Visakhapatnam.

SIMBEX‑2026: 33rd Edition of Singapore‑India Maritime Bilateral Exercise Commences Today in Visakhapatnam Port Area

The 33rd edition of the Singapore‑India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX‑2026) began today in the port area of Visakhapatnam. This exercise, which the navies of both countries conduct annually, aims to enhance maritime security, mutual coordination, and the capability for joint operations. This year, the Chief of the Singapore Navy and the Chief of the Indian Navy jointly attended the opening ceremony, emphasizing the growing strategic cooperation between the two sides.

During the exercise, the Indian and Singaporean navies worked on several maritime operations, anti‑submarine warfare, emergency response, and joint search‑and‑rescue drills. The program this year placed particular emphasis on cybersecurity and maritime drone operations, reflecting new dimensions of modern warfare. Senior officials from both countries stated that these trainings not only improve rapid response capabilities but also increase mutual trust and understanding.

The 33rd edition of SIMBEX reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to regional maritime stability. Experts believe that such bilateral exercises, especially near the strategic straits of Southeast Asia, strengthen the regional balance of power. In the coming years, more extensive operations are planned under SIMBEX, deepening the maritime partnership between India and Singapore.