Indian Naval ship in Japan to participate in fleet review

The Indian Naval Ship INS Sahyadri, currently on operational deployment to North West Pacific region and South China Sea, entered Sagami Bay, Japan, on Wednesday, an official statement said.

The ship will participate in the International Fleet Review organised by the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and also undertake professional interactions in harbour as well as exercises at sea with the JMSDF.

"The visit of INS Sahyadri is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing inter-operability between navies of the two countries," the statement said.

India and Japan have historic cultural links, dating back to the 9th Century A.D. These have led to a natural affinity between the Indian and Japanese people.

In August 2000, both countries established a 'Global Partnership in the 21st Century' and held the first 'Comprehensive Security Dialogue' in 2001.

"India and Japan instituted the Defence Policy Dialogue in 2007 and the Maritime Affairs Dialogue in 2013. As part of their growing maritime interaction, India and Japan have commenced the JIMEX series of bilateral maritime exercises, in 2012 off Yokosuka and in 2013 off Chennai," the statement said.

The JMSDF is also likely to participate in the International Fleet Review 2016, scheduled to be held in February 2016, off the east coast of India.

The ship had earlier visited Da Nang, Vietnam, on way to Sagami Bay, Japan.

On departure from Japan, the ship will visit ports in the Republic of Korea and the Philippines, the statement added.