Russian and Indian Navy Discuss Training of Indian Crew for Vikramaditya

Admiral Vladimir Sergeevich Vysotskiy, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy is visiting India from 17 -19 Jan 11 at the invitation of Admiral Nirmal Verma, Chief of Naval Staff. After paying homage to the martyrs at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, the Admiral called on Admiral Nirmal Verma.

The two Admirals had discussions on issues of common interest ranging from the maritime environment in the IOR, operational philosophies of the two navies, ongoing projects of Indian Navy and mutual training exchanges. Discussions on ongoing projects included detailed deliberations on the training of Indian Naval personnel for the operation of aircraft carrier Vikramaditya, scheduled to commence later this year. Whilst discussing the maritime environment, specific emphasis was laid on the growing threat of piracy in the IOR and various possibilities for the two navies to co-operate. Other matters discussed included possibilities for instituting Navy-to-Navy interactions with 'staff talks' and the feasibility of enhancing the scope of the INDRA exercises between the Indian Navy and the Russian Navy.

India and Russia share deep historical linkages for over fifty years and in recent years defence relations between the two countries have transformed into a strategic partnership with various joint developmental programmes. Indian Navy and Russian Navy have regularly conducted joint exercises named 'INDRA' since 2003. Five exercises have been held so far. The last exercise INDRA 09/01 was conducted off Goa and INS Beas made a port call at St Petersburg.

During this visit to India, Admiral Vysotskiy will also be visiting the Western Naval Command on 18th Jan, where he will be visiting INS Shivalik, the indigenously built stealth frigate.

Admiral Vysotskiy, a graduate from the Black Sea Naval College and the Military Academy of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces has served as the Chief of Staff of the Baltic Fleet and Commander of the Northern Fleet before taking over as the Commander-in-Chief in 2007.