Indian Navy Strengthens Global Ties with Submarine Rescue Drill in South China Sea

The Indian Navy has marked its presence in the South China Sea by participating in Pacific Reach-2025, a large-scale multinational submarine rescue exercise. Hosted by Singapore, this biennial exercise brings together navies from over 40 countries, focusing on coordinated efforts to rescue submariners in distress and enhance interoperability among participating forces.

During the drills, the Indian Navy deployed its specialized assets to conduct simulated rescue operations alongside vessels and aircraft from allied navies. Nations such as the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore actively took part, while China joined as an observer, signaling cautious interest without direct operational involvement.

The exercise included realistic scenarios, such as locating and rescuing stranded submarines, coordinating communications between surface ships and rescue submersibles, and practicing rapid-response procedures. Such exercises are vital in building mutual trust, ensuring maritime safety, and strengthening tactical cooperation in strategically important regions like the South China Sea.

Pacific Reach-2025 also highlights the Indian Navy’s growing role in international maritime collaboration, reflecting India’s commitment to promoting stability, transparency, and shared security in the Indo-Pacific. Analysts say that with China observing but not participating, the exercise sends a message of multilateral engagement without escalating regional tensions.