New Delhi: In a proactive measure to bolster coastal security, the Indian Navy executed a two-day Coastal Security Exercise, Sagar Kavach 02/23, from October 11th to 12th. Spanning across Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and the UT of Puducherry, the exercise engaged all maritime security agencies under the guidance of the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command (FOCINC East).

The comprehensive exercise involved approximately 2500 personnel from the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, State and Union Territory Administrations, Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, Intelligence Agencies, Light Houses, Ports, and Forest departments.

Sagar Kavach 02/23 aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and resilience of the coastal security mechanism in dealing with asymmetric threats arising from the sea. Indian Naval Ships, alongside Coast Guard assets and other coastal security agencies, were strategically deployed to enhance surveillance in the designated areas. The exercise featured heightened security measures, including extensive aerial surveillance conducted by Dornier aircraft and helicopters operating from Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Ramnathapuram.

The Joint Operations Centre (East) in Visakhapatnam, serving as the central hub for all coastal security operations and exercises in the region, closely monitored the exercise. The exercise showcased seamless coordination and synergy among all coastal security stakeholders.

Lessons gleaned from Sagar Kavach 02/23 will be assimilated to fortify the coastal security architecture, ensuring a robust response to potential threats emanating from the maritime domain. The successful execution of this exercise underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its coastal borders through proactive and collaborative security measures.