Indian Naval Ship Shivalik Heads to Japan for JIMEX 24 and RIMPAC 24 Exercises

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Shivalik, currently deployed in the South China Sea and Pacific Ocean, has departed for Japan to participate in the Japan India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) 24 and Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC-24), according to a press release from the Ministry of Defence.

The ship set sail from Singapore on May 30 and is en route to Yokosuka, Japan. This deployment aims to enhance interoperability with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), the US Navy, and other partner navies involved in RIMPAC 24.

During its Operational Turnaround (OTR) in Singapore, INS Shivalik engaged in various activities, including a call on with the Base Commander at Changi Naval Base, a wreath-laying ceremony at Kranji War Memorial, and meetings with the High Commissioner of India to Singapore. Additionally, the ship hosted around 80 school children, welcomed visits from the Indian and Australian High Commissioners, and facilitated cross-deck visits to the USS Mobile (LCS). These engagements reflect the maritime relations and shared values between the navies under the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative.

Prior to this, on May 23, Indian Navy ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan completed their visit to Manila, Philippines, as part of the Eastern Fleet’s operational deployment to the South China Sea. The visit highlighted the ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines over the Scarborough Shoal, a disputed area within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Scarborough Shoal, located approximately 220 kilometers off the coast of the Philippines, is a traditional fishing ground close to key shipping channels. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), an EEZ extends about 370 kilometers from a country’s coast. Despite an international ruling that China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea have no legal basis, Beijing continues to assert dominance over the area, leading to conflicts with other claimant nations, including the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

India and the Philippines established diplomatic relations in November 1949, shortly after both countries gained independence. The bilateral relationship has been characterized by cordiality and mutual respect. Indian Navy and Coast Guard ships frequently visit the Philippines, and there has been an increase in the participation of officers from both countries in specialized training courses. Additionally, delegations from each country’s National Defence College have intensified their visits, further strengthening the defense ties between India and the Philippines.