The Indian Navy has deployed an Offshore Patrol Vessel Sumedha to undertake joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance of Maldives from May 9-19 as part of the Navy’s ‘Mission Based Deployments.’

Maldives, incidentally witnessed political upheaval some months back.

The Indian Navy has close ties with Maldives and provides training to its personnel besides deploying at least two helicopters and a few ships for the last few years. India has also installed coastal radar for surveillance and it is linked to the Indian radar system.

Giving details about the latest deployment, officials said here on Friday, the ship will undertake an Operational Turnaround (OTR) at Male from May 11 to 12 during which the ship will interact and impart training to Maldives' National Defence Forces (MNDF) personnel. Sumedha will also embark MNDF personnel onboard and undertake joint EEZ surveillance of Maldives from May 12 to 15. The MNDF personnel will disembark at Male, on completion of the EEZ surveillance.

Two officers and eight sailors of the Indian Navy's Marine Commando (MARCO) cadre are currently conducting the 2nd Asymmetric Warfare Training Exercise 'Ekatha 2018' at Maldives, from 28 Apr to 15 May 2018. The exercise is being held at Composite Training Centre, Maafilhafushi, which is about 145 km North of Male.

During the exercise training on various diving related issues including use and maintenance of diving equipment, medical emergencies are being imparted to MNDF personnel. The Indian Ambassador to Maldives also witnessed the training exercise on 6 and 7 May. The Joint EEZ surveillance of Maldives is an endeavour of the Indian Government to ensure the safety and security of the vast EEZ of the island nation.

Courtesy: The Pioneer, Saturday, 12 May 2018 | PNS | New Delhi