Consider the following statements regarding the visit of Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS) to Thailand in March 2025.

1. INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera were part of the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron that visited Phuket Deep Sea Port.

2. The Indian ships conducted PASSEX with HTMS Huahin.

3. The visit included war-like drills, such as simulated naval combat and live-fire exercises.

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (C) 1, 2 and 3.

Explanation:

• Statement 1: Correct. The visit of Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS) in March 2025 included INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, which visited the Phuket Deep Sea Port in Thailand.

• Statement 2: Correct. During the visit, the Indian ships conducted a PASSEX (Passage Exercise) with the Thai Navy’s HTMS Huahin, a routine naval exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability between the two navies.

• Statement 3: Correct. The visit also involved war-like drills, including simulated naval combat and live-fire exercises, showcasing the operational readiness of the participating ships and strengthening naval cooperation between India and Thailand.

Information Booster:

• PASSEX exercises are often conducted between navies to practice coordinated maneuvers and communication in various operational scenarios.

• The First Training Squadron (1TS) is a key component of the Indian Navy, primarily tasked with providing training and experience to naval cadets and officers through operational tours and exercises abroad.

• The joint drills, including live-fire exercises, help strengthen defence relations and maritime security cooperation between India and Thailand.