The collaboration is part of ongoing efforts to foster a safe and secure maritime environment
As the ship CSB 8005 departed Kochi on December 20, 2024, it marked the conclusion of a successful four-day visit that bolstered maritime cooperation between the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The visit culminated in a joint sea exercise, ‘Sahayog-Hop Tac,’ aimed at addressing critical maritime security challenges and enhancing interoperability between the two forces.

The visit by CSB 8005 underscored the growing partnership between Vietnam and India in maritime security. According to a statement released by the ICG, the collaboration is part of ongoing efforts to foster a safe and secure maritime environment. The joint sea exercise, conducted off the coast of Kochi in Kerala, served as the centerpiece of the visit.

Key Objectives of the Exercise:
1. Enhance preparedness for maritime security threats.
2. Strengthen coordination in search and rescue operations.
3. Develop effective responses to environmental hazards, such as oil spills.
4. Facilitate knowledge-sharing through joint training activities.

Highlights of ‘Sahayog-Hop Tac’
The comprehensive sea exercise included several simulated scenarios designed to address pressing maritime challenges:
1. Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations: The exercise demonstrated coordinated efforts in locating and rescuing individuals in distress at sea. ICG helicopters and aircraft showcased their advanced capabilities in SAR operations.
2. Pollution Response Demonstration: Both forces participated in a pollution-response drill, focusing on effective strategies to mitigate environmental hazards such as oil spills.
3. Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) Operations: The exercise simulated scenarios to inspect vessels suspected of illegal activities, including drug trafficking and smuggling, highlighting the importance of collaborative law enforcement at sea.
4. Neutralizing Asymmetric Threats: The teams worked together to simulate and counter unconventional maritime security threats, showcasing their preparedness for modern challenges.

In addition to the sea exercise, the visit featured several initiatives to foster camaraderie and facilitate mutual learning:
1. Crew Exchanges: Personnel from both Coast Guards had the opportunity to observe each other’s operational practices, enhancing their understanding of mutual capabilities.
2. Joint Training: Collaborative training sessions provided an avenue for skill enhancement and shared knowledge.
3. Community Engagement: The crews participated in a beach cleanup event and a friendly volleyball match, strengthening bonds beyond operational activities.

The visit of CSB 8005 to Kochi and the subsequent joint exercise signify the strengthening maritime ties between India and Vietnam. The collaboration aligns with the broader strategic objectives of both nations, focusing on ensuring a stable and secure maritime domain.

“This visit and exercise reaffirm the commitment of both nations to fostering a collaborative maritime environment. The exchange of expertise and joint operations showcase the shared vision for a peaceful and secure maritime region,” the ICG statement read.

The successful completion of ‘Sahayog-Hop Tac’ opens avenues for future collaborations. Both nations expressed their intent to continue joint exercises, focusing on advanced maritime challenges and expanding the scope of cooperation.

As maritime security continues to be a critical area of concern in the Indo-Pacific region, the partnership between India and Vietnam sets a benchmark for regional cooperation. Both nations have been working to strengthen their naval capabilities and align their maritime strategies to address shared challenges, including piracy, trafficking, and environmental threats.

India’s collaboration with Vietnam in maritime security is also reflective of its ‘Act East’ policy, aimed at deepening ties with Southeast Asian nations. Similarly, Vietnam’s outreach to India underscores its commitment to fostering regional partnerships to enhance security and stability.