The United States Coast Guard (USCG) Ship Bertholf arrived at Port Blair on Thursday, marking a significant step in bolstering bilateral cooperation with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
The visit is part of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening maritime security and safety in the region.
The US vessel, Bertholf, is a Legend-class maritime security cutter, equipped with advanced technology and weaponry, including helicopter landing pad, state-of-the-art sensors and communication equipment.
The ship serves the operational function for complex law enforcement, defence, and national security missions, reflecting the USCG’s commitment to maritime safety and security.
The highlight of its visit is the upcoming joint exercise, codenamed “Sea Defenders-2024”, with the ICG scheduled to take place on 9-10 March 2024 off Port Blair.
This exercise will involve coordinated efforts between the USCG Ship Bertholf and ICG ships and aircraft, focusing on aspects of maritime security and safety, especially counter drone attacks, drug interdiction and other contemporary transnational organised crimes in the oceans in the region.
The exercise will simulate scenarios relevant to maritime piracy and asymmetric threats, including simulated drone attacks on commercial merchant traffic, joint maritime search and rescue operations, major firefighting, marine pollution response, and counter-drug interdiction exercises. Additionally, a simulated medical evacuation will be conducted to enhance readiness in emergency situations.
This visit underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing maritime challenges and reaffirms the longstanding partnership between the ICG and the USCG, an official release said.