IT correspondent
Mumbai, Aug 16:
The second edition of exercise “Zair-Al-Bahr” between the Indian Navy and Qatar Emiri Naval Force (QENF) was conducted between August 09 and August 14, in the Persian Gulf.
The present edition of the exercise included a three day harbour phase followed by a two day sea phase. The sea phase comprised of tactical maritime exercises involving Surface Action, Anti-Piracy exercises, Air Defence, Maritime surveillance, Boarding operations and SAR exercises.
In the sea phase of the exercise, Indian Navy Missile Stealth Frigate INS Trikand, QENF Missile Boats of Barzan and Damsah class, Fast-Attack Crafts of MRTP 34 class and Rafale Fighter Aircraft participated.
Indian Navy remains committed towards ensuring peace, stability and security in the region and is ever ready to cooperate and collaborate with partner Navies on issues of Maritime safety and security.
The 2nd edition of exercise Zair-Al-Bahr will contribute towards the Indian Navy’s efforts to consolidate Inter-operability and forge strong bonds of friendship with the Qatari Navy. The bilateral maritime exercise between two navies would further strengthen the maritime exchanges between the two countries and enhance maritime security in the region, an official statement said.