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Belawan, Indonesia – The strategic maritime partnership between India and Indonesia witnessed another significant milestone with the conclusion of the 44th edition of the India-Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (IND-INDO CORPAT) on Monday. Indian Naval Ship (INS) Saryu, an indigenously built Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV), and LCU-55, the fifth ship of the indigenously designed and built Landing Craft Utility (LCU) Mk-IV class, along with a Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) Dornier, arrived in Belawan, Indonesia, for the post-deployment debriefing and closing ceremony.
The 44th IND-INDO CORPAT, conducted from July 13 to 21, underscores the enduring commitment of both nations to enhance regional maritime security and foster deeper ties. As articulated by the Embassy of India in Jakarta on 'X', this edition aimed to "bolster the maritime cooperation between the two navies and forge strong bonds of friendship between India and Indonesia, in keeping with Government of India’s vision MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions."
MAHASAGAR: A Vision for Regional Security and Growth
India's MAHASAGAR vision, an elevation of its earlier SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy, emphasizes a comprehensive approach to maritime security and development across the broader Global South. Under this vision, the Indian Navy has actively engaged with countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) through a spectrum of activities including bilateral and multilateral exercises, coordinated patrols, joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
A Legacy of Cooperation: Twice a Year Since 2002
The practice of conducting CORPATs twice a year between India and Indonesia dates back to 2002. These patrols are crucial for maintaining the safety and security of the vital IOR for commercial shipping, international trade, and legitimate maritime activities.
Beyond enhancing understanding and interoperability between the navies, CORPATs serve as a vital mechanism to prevent and suppress a range of illicit activities, including Illegal Unreported Unregulated (IUU) fishing, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery, and piracy.
They also facilitate the exchange of information for preventing smuggling and illegal immigration, and for conducting critical Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea.
Deepening Strategic Partnership
The strong and friendly relationship between India and Indonesia, spanning a wide array of activities and interactions, has seen significant diplomatic momentum. Earlier this year, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, on his first State Visit to India, was the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations.
This visit notably coincided with the 75th Anniversary of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations, a testament to the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the two maritime neighbors.
During the visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Subianto reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen and broaden defense cooperation, aiming for a robust strategic partnership.
President Subianto also welcomed India’s growing interest in enhancing maritime security cooperation and engagement with regional mechanisms to ensure the safety of sea lanes of communication.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts for secure sea lanes and agreed on the necessity of constant communication to discuss advancements in maritime safety.
The successful conclusion of the 44th IND-INDO CORPAT reinforces the shared vision of India and Indonesia for a secure, stable, and prosperous Indian Ocean Region, highlighting their unwavering dedication to regional stability and mutual growth.