Indo-Russia bilaterla Naval exercise commences

A five-day Naval exercise between India and Russia began here today aimed to increase interoperability between the two navies and to develop common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations.
Initiated in 2003, Indra Navy, has matured over the years with increasing scope, complexity of operations and level of participation.
The 8th edition is being in the Bay of Bengal till December 12. The primary aim of this exercise is to increase interoperability between the two navies and develop common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations, a Navy statement said.
The scope of INDRA NAVY -15 includes wide-ranging professional interactions during the Harbour phase and a diverse canvas of operational activities at sea across a spectrum of maritime operations.

During the exercises, the Indian Navy will be represented by INS Sahyadri an indigenous frigate, INS Ranvijay, a guided missile destroyer and INS Shakti a Fleet Support Ship.
In addition, a submarine, INS Sindhuvir, the P8I Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Dornier Short Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer and other integral rotary wing helicopters are scheduled to participate in the bilateral exercise.
The Russian Federation Navy (RFN) ships Varyag (cruiser), Bystry (destroyer), Alatau (rescue ocean going tug) and Boris Butoma (fleet tanker) will be participating.
The exercise will be in two phases - the Harbour Phase (December 7-9) at Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase (December 10-12) off Visakhapatnam.