India-Russia joint naval exercise INDRA NAVY-15 begins in Visakhapatnam

The eighth edition of India-Russia joint naval exercise-INDRA NAVY-15 has begun in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. INDRA NAVY-15 is a bilateral maritime joint naval exercise between the Indian and Russian navies for epitomising the strategic relationship between the two countries. 
About INDRA NAVY-15 

• The primary aim is to increase interoperability between the navies of two countries and develop common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations. 
• The scope includes wide- ranging professional interactions during the Harbour phase and spectrum of maritime operations during the Sea Phase.
• The Harbour Phase encompasses planning conferences ashore and table-top exercises prior to progressing to sea. The Sea Phase would include various facets of fleet operations.
• Indian Navy will be represented by: INS Sahyadri– an indigenous frigate, INS Ranvijay– a guided missile destroyer and INS Shakti-a Fleet Support Ship. 
• It also is represented by INS Sindhuvir– a submarine, P81 Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Dornier Short Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer. 
• Russian Federation Navy (RFN) will be represented by: 4 ships from Vladivostok based Pacific Fleet. They are Bystry-a destroyer, Varyag-a cruiser, Alatau-a rescue ocean going tug and Boris Butoma-a fleet tanker. 
• INDRA NAVY-15 bilateral naval exercise was initiated in 2003. Since then, it has matured over the years with increasing scope, complexity of operations and level of participation. 
• The eight edition of exercise will be another milestone in strengthening maritime security cooperation between the two navies. It will also serve to reinforce the long-standing bond of friendship between both countries.