India, Singapore begin 33rd SIMBEX naval exercise in Visakhapatnam

The 33rd edition of the Singapore–India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX-2026) began in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, and is scheduled to run till October 26. The exercise brings together the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) for a programme of professional exchanges and maritime drills.

The RSN ship RSS Supreme arrived in Visakhapatnam to take part. The opening ceremony was held onboard INS Nilgiri and INS Kamorta. It was attended by the Chief Staff Officer (Operations) of the Eastern Naval Command, the Fleet Commander of the RSN, and other senior officers from both navies.

SIMBEX began in 1994 as Exercise Lion King. Over the years, it has grown into a significant bilateral maritime engagement between the Indian Navy and the RSN. The exercise has expanded in scope and complexity, helping strengthen professional ties, mutual understanding and operational interoperability between the two forces.

This year’s exercise is divided into two phases. The Harbour Phase, from October 21 to 23, will include professional interactions, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), cross-deck visits, sporting engagements and planning conferences. These activities are intended to allow personnel from both navies to share experience and prepare for the sea phase.

The Sea Phase, from October 24 to 26, will be conducted in the Bay of Bengal. It will feature maritime operations and tactical exercises, including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface and anti-air warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and tactical manoeuvres. Such drills are part of the exercise’s focus on operational coordination at sea.

SIMBEX-2026 reaffirms the longstanding maritime partnership between India and Singapore and their shared commitment to enhancing interoperability, addressing common maritime security challenges, and promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, according to the exercise announcement.

The exercise is watched by maritime analysts because it involves two navies operating together in Indian waters and the Bay of Bengal. For the Indian Navy, the engagement with Singapore is part of a wider set of bilateral exercises with regional partners. For the RSN, the deployment offers an opportunity to train in a different maritime environment and to work alongside Indian Navy units.

The schedule includes both shore-based planning and at-sea drills, with the opening ceremony marking the formal start of the programme. The Indian Navy and the RSN have said the exercise is aimed at strengthening practical cooperation and mutual confidence between their personnel.

SIMBEX-2026 is scheduled to conclude on October 26 after the sea phase in the Bay of Bengal.