By Ajai Shukla
The fifth edition of the maritime bilateral exercise, JIMEX, between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF), will be held in the Arabian Sea from 06 to 08 October 2021.
The JIMEX series of annual naval exercises commenced in January 2012 with special focus on maritime security cooperation. The last edition of JIMEX was conducted in September 2020.
Indigenously built guided missile stealth destroyer INS Kochi and guided missile frigate INS Teg, under the command of Rear Admiral Ajay Kochhar, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet (FOCWEF), will represent the Indian Navy.
The Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force will be represented by JMSDF ships Kaga, an Izumo-class helicopter carrier and Murasame, a guided missile destroyer, led by Rear Admiral IkeuchiIzuru, Commander Escort Flotila - 3 (CCF-3).
In addition, P8I long range maritime patrol aircraft, Dornier maritime patrol aircraft, integral helicopters and MiG 29K fighter aircraft will also participate in the exercise.
JIMEX-21 aims to develop common understanding of operational procedures and enhance inter-operability through conduct of a multitude of advanced exercises, across the entire spectrum of maritime operations. Multi-faceted tactical exercises involving weapon firings, cross-deck helicopter operations and complex surface, anti-submarine and air warfare drills will consolidate coordination developed by the two navies.
The Indian Navy said on Tuesday: “Naval cooperation between India and Japan has increased in scope and complexity over years. JIMEX-21 will further enhance the cooperation and mutual confidence between the two navies and fortify the long-standing bond of friendship between the two countries.”
Can naval surface vessels and submarines use missiles and torpedoes during naval exercises, without the explosive or destructive charge, so that they can simulate actual naval warfare without damaging the naval vessels taking part, nor causing human casualties? Can such dummy weapons be developed? How do naval vessels simulate combat conditions during naval exercises, if at all? Similar methods could perhaps be used by the army and air force, too.
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