Niël Terblanché
In a demonstration of India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and fostering friendly relations, the Indian Navy’s INS Sumedha paid a port call to Walvis Bay.
The visit started last week Friday and the vessel and its crew departed yesterday and forms part of the Indian Navy’s mission-based deployment to West Africa and the Atlantic.
According to a press release from the Indian Ministry of Defence, the port call at Walvis Bay signifies the warm ties between India and Namibia. It also underscores India’s solidarity with friendly nations in the region.
During the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Sumedha conducted courtesy calls with Namibian dignitaries and senior defence officers, including the Navy Commander of the Namibian Navy. Professional interactions focused on sharing best practices, cross-deck visits, and social engagements were held with their Namibian counterparts during the ship’s stay in the harbour.
India and Namibia share strong bilateral relations founded on common values of democracy, development, and secularism. The two nations have established numerous bilateral arrangements for cooperation and military exchange.
Over the years, India has provided training to a substantial number of Namibian military officers at various Indian military institutions as part of their defence cooperation.
Indian Navy ships are routinely deployed as part of the Indian Navy’s mission to build “Bridges of Friendship” and enhance international cooperation with friendly countries. These deployments also address maritime concerns worldwide.
The current visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its bonds of friendship with Namibia and showcasing its solidarity with friendly nations.
INS Sumedha, the third indigenously developed Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) of the Saryu class, has been deployed for multiple roles, both independently and in support of fleet operations.
The vessel is equipped with advanced weapon systems, sensors, navigation and communication systems, and an Electronic Warfare system.
In the past, INS Sumedha has undertaken various operations, including coastal and offshore patrolling, ocean surveillance, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions, such as Operation Kaveri, which involved the evacuation of Indian citizens from war-affected Sudan in April 2023.
