From November 10–13, INS Sumedha, as part of the Indian Navy’s mission-based deployment to West Africa and the Atlantic, called at Walvis Bay, Namibia. India’s warm connections to Namibia, its dedication to improving maritime security, and its solidarity with friendly nations are all demonstrated by this port call.
The Commanding Officer made polite calls to key defense officials and dignitaries from Namibia, including the Navy Commander of the Namibia Navy, during the visit. During the ship’s port call, the Namibia Navy and I had social engagements, cross-deck visits, and professional exchanges focused on best practices.
Since they share the same principles of democracy, development, and secularism, India and Namibia have enjoyed cordial and friendly bilateral relations. There are numerous bilateral agreements in place between the two nations regarding military cooperation. Over the years, India has provided training to numerous Namibian military commanders at different Indian military institutes as part of its defense cooperation.
As part of the Indian Navy’s goal to solve marine issues worldwide and to construct “Bridges of Friendship” and develop international collaboration with friendly nations, ships from the Indian Navy are frequently deployed. The goal of the current tour is to highlight India’s support for friendly nations and, specifically, to deepen ties of friendship with Namibia.
The third of the Saryu class’s locally built Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPVs), INS Sumedha is used both independently and in support of fleet operations. Numerous armament weapons, sensors, cutting-edge communication and navigation systems, and an electronic warfare system are all installed on the ship. Sumedha has already carried out a number of fleet support operations, offshore and coastal patrolling, ocean surveillance, and HADR missions. Most recently, on April 23, it carried out Operation Kaveri, which was designed to evacuate Indian diaspora residents from war-torn Sudan.
