From May 3 to May 10, 2023, the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy participated in the 35th iteration of the India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT). Along with Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both navies, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kesari, an indigenously constructed LST (L), and His Thai Majesty’s Ship (HTMS) Saiburi, a Chao Phraya Class Frigate, took part in the CORPAT along the IMBL in the Andaman Sea.
The Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy have been conducting CORPAT biannually along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) since 2005 as a means of strengthening maritime ties between the two nations and in an effort to maintain safety and security for international trade in this crucial area of the Indian Ocean. In addition to facilitating the establishment of measures to prevent and suppress illegal acts including piracy, armed robbery, and illegal fishing, CORPAT improves mutual understanding and interoperability between navies. By exchanging information to stop smuggling, illegal immigration, and to carry out Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea, it also contributes to improving operational synergy.
The Indian Navy has been actively collaborating with the nations in the Indian Ocean Region to strengthen regional maritime security as part of the Government of India’s vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) missions, coordinated patrols, bilateral and multilateral exercises, and joint EEZ surveillance have all been used to achieve this. Over the years, the connection between the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy has become closer and friendlier while including a wide range of activities and exchanges. A further step in the Indian Navy’s efforts to strengthen interoperability and create enduring friendships between India and Thailand is the 35th Indo-Thai CORPAT.
