Kochi: Joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) exercise has commenced at Southern Naval Command, Kochi with an aim to strengthen maritime security and operational cooperation between the Indian Navy and the US Navy. This bilateral exercise will last for five days from 10 to 14 August.
The main objective of this training is to enhance mutual coordination between the expert diving and EOD teams of both the countries, share expertise and strengthen the capacity to deal with the existing EOD challenges.
There will be exchange of expertise and technologies
During this exercise, which began on August 10, emphasis is being laid on increasing professional cooperation between the personnel of the two navies. The program includes exchange of subject matter experts, cross-training, demonstration of equipment and situational practical training.
Through these activities, both sides are sharing experiences on existing EOD technologies, advanced technical capabilities and improved operational processes.
Opportunity to understand each other's capabilities
The joint exercise provides an opportunity to the personnel of both the navies to closely understand each other's capabilities, operational concepts and professional methodology.
The emphasis is on improving processes, enhancing mutual understanding and developing capabilities to effectively deal with complex and changing EOD challenges through joint training and dialogue.
Joint exercises are taking place since 2005
Joint salvage and EOD exercises have been conducted between the Indian Navy and the US Navy since 2005. The current exercise underway in Kochi is the eighth edition of this bilateral training programme.
The exercise reflects the commitment to take forward the long standing cooperation between the two navies as well as share operational expertise and strengthen coordination in special naval operations.
Operational coordination will be strengthened in five days
The joint activities and interaction between experts during the five-day training will provide an opportunity to naval personnel of both the countries to share their experiences and better understand the procedures.
The exercise is expected to further strengthen mutual understanding, professional understanding and joint operational capability between the two sides.
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