WASHINGTON: Indian Navy on Thursday participated with the navies of the US, the Philippines and Japan in their first joint naval exercise in the disputed South China Sea, where China is flexing its muscle.
The vessels included Indian destroyer INS Kolkata and tanker INS Shakti, a guided missile destroyer from the US Pacific Fleet, Japanese aircraft carrier Izumo and the Philippines patrol vessel Andres Bonifacio, the US Navy said in a statement.
“Our team was really excited to take part in this multi-lateral event,” Commander Andrew J Klug, commanding officer, USS William P Lawrence, said.
“Professional engagements with our allies, partners and friends in the region are opportunities to build upon our existing, strong relationships, as well as learn from each other,” Klug said.
The ships conducted formation exercises, communication drills, passenger transfers and held a leadership exchange aboard JS Izumo. (AGENCIES)
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