The INS Tir and ICGS Sarathi of the Indian Navy’s 1st Training Squadron (1TS) visited Port Antsiranana, Madagascar during March 20-23, 2023. The port visit was undertaken as part of the continuing long-range training deployment of the 1st Training Squadron.
The INS Tir and ICGS Sarathi were met by authorities from the Madagascar Navy and the Indian Embassy in Madagascar. Bandaru Wilsonbabu, Indian Ambassador to Madagascar, visited the ships during this time.
The 1 Training Squadron of the Indian Navy comprises a group of ships dedicated to imparting basic and upgraded training to officers and sailors of the Indian Navy as well as the Indian Coast Guard. 1TS undertakes a variety of exercises and missions to teach Navy troops seamanship, navigation, and other vital abilities for naval operations.
In between the port stops, a reception was given onboard INS Tir. Ambassador Bandaru Wilsonbabu, Governor of the area Rakotomanga Tassiano, top officers of the Madagascar military, diplomats, and civilian leaders, as well as more than one hundred guests, attended the event.
1TS is essential for education and diplomacy.
The 1 Training Squadron of the Indian Navy plays a crucial role in the training of young Indian Navy officers and sailors. It provides students practical instruction in ship handling, navigation, communication and seamanship abilities. In addition,
1TS is a vital asset of the Indian Navy when it comes to providing humanitarian aid and disaster relief to friendly foreign nations. During a visit to Port Antsiranana, Madagascar, both ships of 1TS were opened to visitors on 21 and 22 March as a gesture of goodwill. The Indian Ministry of Defense revealed in a press release that up to 2000 visitors had arrived on the ships.
Through joint exercises and goodwill visits, the 1st Training Squadron also helps promote good relations with other nations. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in increasing the operational preparedness of the Indian Navy and guaranteeing maritime security in the area. Both INS Tir and ICGS Sarathi worked with the Madagascar Navy and did numerous training exercises during port calls.
Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defense (NBCD), weapon handling, fire fighting, and Visit Board Search and Seizure were among the training exercises. The connection between the Indian Navy and the Navy of Madagascar included friendly basketball and volleyball contests. The Indian Defense Ministry stated in a press release that the visit of the ships of 1TS to Antsiranana strengthened bilateral relations and cooperation between the two nations.
