SIMBEX-2026: 33rd Edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise Begins in Visakhapatnam

The 33rd edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX-2026) has begun at Visakhapatnam. It runs from 21 to 26 October 2026 and brings together the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).

What is Exercise SIMBEX 2026?

SIMBEX is a naval exercise between India and Singapore. Over the years, it has grown in scope and complexity and become an important bilateral maritime engagement.

Key Details of Exercise SIMBEX 2026 33rd Edition

1. Edition: 33rd edition, which began in 1994 as Exercise Lion King
2. Location: Visakhapatnam (Harbour Phase) and the Bay of Bengal (Sea Phase)
3. Indian Navy ships: INS Nilgiri (Project 17A stealth frigate) and INS Kamorta (Project 28 anti-submarine warfare corvette)
4. RSN ship: RSS Supreme (Formidable-class stealth frigate)
5. Objective: To strengthen maritime cooperation, improve operational interoperability and promote security in the Indo-Pacific region

RSS Supreme reached Visakhapatnam on 21 October. The opening ceremony was held the same day onboard INS Nilgiri and INS Kamorta. The Chief Staff Officer (Operations) of the Eastern Naval Command, the RSN Fleet Commander and other senior officers attended it.

33rd Edition of SIMBEX-2026 to Be Conducted in Two Phases

Harbour Phase (21 to 23 October 2026)

This phase is held in port and focuses on professional interaction:

• Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs)
• Cross-deck visits
• Sporting events
• Planning conferences

Sea Phase (24 to 26 October 2026)

This phase takes place in the Bay of Bengal and focuses on operational drills:

• Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
• Anti-surface and anti-air warfare drills
• Seamanship evolutions
• Tactical manoeuvres

How is SIMBEX-2026 important for the India and Singapore Maritime Partnership?

The exercise reaffirms the long-standing maritime ties between the two countries. It helps both navies:

• Work smoothly together through better interoperability
• Build mutual understanding and professional relations
• Tackle common maritime security challenges
• Support peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific