A P8I Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance
Aircraft of the Indian Navy have arrived at Darwin, Australia.
The aircraft and its crew would be
undertaking an operational turnaround at Darwin. During its stay, the team from
the Indian Navy's maritime patrol squadron, Albatross, is scheduled to engage
with its counterparts from the 92 Wing of the Royal Australian Air Force. P8
aircraft from both the countries, would be conducting coordinated operations in
Anti-Submarine Warfare and surface surveillance, to enhance maritime domain
awareness.
Increased
interaction has enhanced
inter-operability and fostered bridges of friendship
In recent times, increased interaction
between the two maritime nations, through bilateral and multilateral exercises
at sea, has enhanced inter-operability and fostered bridges of friendship. The
P8 aircraft, with their demonstrated long reach, have operated jointly during
Malabar and AUSINDEX series of exercises, and have a common understanding of
operating procedures and information sharing.
The maritime waters between Indonesia and
Northern Australia are an area of mutual interest to both countries, being a
gateway into the Indian Ocean Region.
Both India and Australia share strategic
interests, promoting a free and open Indo- Pacific and rules based order in the
region.