Indian and South African Navies collaborate on SAS Mendi’s sea training

In a groundbreaking collaborative effort, an eight-member team from Headquarters Sea Training (HQST), Indian Navy (IN), conducted Operational Sea Training and Safety Audit for SAS Mendi at Simons Town from October 2 to October 13, 2023. This initiative was undertaken in close partnership with the South African Navy (SAN) Operational Sea Training Team (OST) Team.

The Indian Navy delegation, led by Cmde Amit Gurbuxani, Chief Staff Officer to Flag Officer Sea Training, comprised specialist officers and sailors who engaged in a comprehensive training program over two distinct phases.

The initial phase of training, conducted in the harbor, encompassed a series of lectures and interactive sessions covering critical aspects such as pilotage, bridgework, handling of bridge emergencies, force protection measures, fire-fighting and damage control drills, operational risk management, electrical and engineering best practices, and seamanship training. Additionally, dedicated training was provided to the bridge team through the ship handling simulator.

Transitioning to the sea training phase, SAS Mendi embarked on two sea sorties with the HQST and SAN OST teams on board. These sea training exercises offered practical hands-on experience to the ship’s crew, reinforcing the subjects covered during the harbour training. The sea exercises focused on precise navigation, force protection drills, boat drills, emergencies and breakdown drills, as well as damage control and fire-fighting procedures.

Throughout the training, IN and SAN OST teams engaged in professional interactions that facilitated the exchange of experiences and best practices. The Operational Sea Training culminated with a joint debrief for the ship’s crew, during which observations, recommendations, and guidance were provided to enhance good practices.

The training concluded with a brief ceremony held onboard SAS Mendi on October 13, 2023, marking the successful completion of this collaborative effort.

This pioneering training initiative by the HQST team has not only created new avenues for training collaboration between the Indian Navy and the South African Navy but has also significantly strengthened the professional relationship between the two naval forces. This joint endeavour underscores the commitment of both nations to advancing maritime expertise and enhancing operational capabilities.