The Indian Navy conducted a comprehensive two-day Coastal Security Exercise, known as Sagar Kavach 02/23, involving all maritime security agencies in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territory of Puducherry from October 11 to October 12, 2023. This exercise was carried out under the supervision of the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command (FOCINC East), who also holds the authority of Commander-in-Chief, Coastal Defence (East). Approximately 2,500 personnel from various agencies, including the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, State and Union Territory Administrations, Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, Intelligence Agencies, Lighthouses, Ports, Forest, and more, participated in the exercise.
The primary objective of the exercise was to evaluate the effectiveness and resilience of the coastal security mechanism when dealing with potential asymmetric threats emerging from the sea. To bolster surveillance efforts in the region, Indian Naval Ships, in collaboration with Coast Guard assets and other coastal security agencies, were deployed. Additionally, enhanced security measures were implemented, and extensive aerial surveillance was carried out by Dornier aircraft and helicopters operating from Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Ramnathapuram.
The entire exercise was closely monitored at the Joint Operations Centre (East) in Visakhapatnam, which serves as the central coordinating hub for all coastal security operations and exercises within its operational area. The exercise aimed to further strengthen the coastal security apparatus and enhance preparedness against potential maritime threats.