1. Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tir will be visiting Port Victoria, Seychelles from 24 February to 29 February 2024 and 07-08 March 2024. With an aim to enhance maritime security and keep sea lanes in the region safe for maritime commerce, Indian Naval Ship Tir is participating in the multi-national maritime exercise Ex Cutlass Express-24 (CE 24) being held in Seychelles from 24 February to 06 March 2024. The ship’s visit also aims to provide a wider exposure to 68 trainee officers (64 Indian, 4 foreign) who are undergoing basic training onboard ship. As part of their stay, the trainees will interact with Seychelles Defence Forces and also undertake cross training with navies of Friendly Foreign nations.

2. During the Port call, the Commanding Officer of INS Tir will call on the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism H.E. Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde and Chief of Defence Forces, Brigadier Michael Rosette. Ship officers and crew will also take part in various activities including Yoga; Friendly Football match; Philanthropist activities encompassing Visit to Elderly Home; and Performance of Indian Navy Band at National Museum Seychelles, among others.

3. In addition, Indian Navy would be handing over repaired Dornier Engines, Dornier Life Rafts to Seychelles Air Force, Machinery and equipment spares as a part of capacity building to the Seychelles Coast Guard. Contributing to community outreach, the ship will be open to visitors on 25 February 2024 and the naval band will perform in Victoria on 27 February 2024.

4. INS Tir is part of 1st training squadron and is based at Kochi under the Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. It is responsible for training of officers from Indian Navy and friendly foreign navies from their basic courses to their specialisation at various stages of their career. At the helm is the Commanding Officer Captain Anshul Kishore, who is assisted by team of Officers and sailors who provides directions, experience and focus to the training curriculum of the Officer cadets onboard.

5. Defence engagement and capacity building is an integral part of the warm and cordial India-Seychelles ties and this visit of the Indian Navy 1st training squadron ship will further consolidate this relationship, while augmenting the mutual goal of maritime safety and security.

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23 February 2024