The 6th edition of the Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) and the 4th edition of the bilateral exercise ‘BONGOSAGAR’ between the Indian Navy and the Bangladesh Navy began on March 10, 2025, and will run until March 12, 2025. These naval exercises are taking place in the designated maritime areas of the Bay of Bengal, close to the maritime borders of Bangladesh and India. Supervised by Commander Flotilla West, the exercises aim to enhance maritime security, foster cooperation, and address various criminal activities at sea.
Background of India-Bangladesh Naval Exercises
India and Bangladesh have been conducting joint naval patrols and exercises since 2018, which underscores their strong maritime cooperation. These exercises are vital for improving regional maritime security and ensuring the safety of their shared waters. Over the years, both countries have enhanced their ability to exchange intelligence, carry out coordinated maritime patrols, and boost operational interoperability.
Previous Editions of CORPAT and BONGOSAGAR
• BONGOSAGAR-23 (4th edition) and CORPAT-23 (5th edition) took place in the Northern Bay of Bengal from November 7 to November 9, 2023.
• The events featured joint patrolling along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and a variety of tactical exercises.
• A key highlight was the first-ever Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) drills, which included a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation at sea.
Participating Naval Forces
The ongoing naval exercise features advanced warships and aerial assets from both nations:
Bangladesh Navy’s Participation
- Warship: BNS ABU UBAIDAH
- Aerial Support: A maritime patrol aircraft
Indian Navy’s Participation
- Warship: INS RANVIR
- Aerial Support: A helicopter
Objectives of CORPAT-25 and BONGOSAGAR-25
The primary objectives of these joint naval exercises are:
- Enhancing Maritime Security: The exercises focus on preventing criminal activities such as illegal fishing, smuggling, human trafficking, piracy, and drug trafficking.
- Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation: Both navies aim to improve coordination, enhance communication protocols, and develop seamless operational interoperability.
- Exchange of Intelligence and Surveillance Data: Through the joint patrols, both nations will share critical intelligence on maritime threats and conduct coordinated responses.
- Strategic Naval Drills: The exercises include communication drills, surface gun-shoots, tactical maneuvers, and formation sailing to improve combat readiness.
- Maritime Economy Development: By improving security in the Bay of Bengal, the exercise aims to safeguard economic activities such as shipping and fishing.
