INS Sindhukesari

• 25 Feb 2023

For the first time, an Indian Navy submarine, INS Sindhukesari, has docked in Jakarta, Indonesia, from February 22 to 24, as part of India's expanding military cooperation with South East Asian nations.

• INS Sindhukesari is a Kilo-class submarine of the Indian Navy. (Kilo class submarine is a type of diesel-electric attack submarine developed by the Soviet Union in the 1980s for export to other countries).
• The submarine has a displacement of 2,300 tonnes, a maximum diving depth of 300 metres, and a top speed of 18 knots.
• It is manned by a crew of 53 and can operate solo for 45 days.

Significance of INS Sindhukesari docking in Indonesia:

• Strengthening maritime partnership: The docking of INS Sindhukesari in Jakarta marks a significant step towards strengthening the maritime partnership between India and Indonesia.
• Expansion of area operational reach: The docking of the Indian Navy submarine in Jakarta significantly expands the area operational reach of the submarine arm near crucial shipping lanes and the strategic Malacca Strait.
• Strategic significance: The docking of INS Sindhukesari in Indonesia is of strategic significance as it highlights India's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
• It sends a strong message to China, which has been aggressively asserting its claims in the South China Sea, that India is a major player in the region and is committed to safeguarding its interests and those of its allies.
• Enhancing defense ties: The docking of INS Sindhukesari in Jakarta is expected to enhance defense ties between India and Indonesia.