USCG Ship Bertholf Arrives In Port Blair For Joint Exercise To Improve Maritime Security

The US Coast Guard Ship Bertholf landed at Port Blair, taking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation with the Indian Coast Guard on March 7, 2024. The visit is part of a more extensive program to improve the region’s maritime safety and security.

The Defense Ministry said that the joint exercise, code-named “Sea Defenders-2024,” will occur on March 9–10, 2024, off the coast of Port Blair. This exercise confirms the long-standing cooperation between the ICG and the USCG and emphasizes the value of international cooperation in solving maritime issues.

The drill will be conducted on the Legend-class United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Bertholf, outfitted with cutting-edge technology and weaponry, such as a helicopter landing pad, advanced sensors, and communication equipment. The ship reflects the USCG’s dedication to maritime safety and security by performing the operational role for complex law enforcement, defence, and national security tasks.

The collaborative exercise will feature coordinated operations between the USCG ship Bertholf and ICG ships and aircraft, focusing on maritime security and safety. This involves drug interdiction, counter-drone assaults, and other modern transnational organized crimes in the region’s waterways.

ICG — Image Credits: Indian Coast Guard/Twitter

Drone strikes on commercial merchant traffic simulations, massive firefighting, collaborative maritime search and rescue operations, and counter-drug interdiction drills are also part of the exercise. These occurrences are significant for pirate activity on ships and asymmetrical threats. A mock medical evacuation will also be carried out to improve preparedness in an emergency.

The USCGC Bertholf’s visit to India demonstrates a shared commitment to upholding maritime norms and advancing an Indo-Pacific region based on rules. The Indian Coast Guard and the US Coast Guard have interacted several times, especially in training, drills, and joint operations. The two maritime agencies have consistently maintained professional partnerships through high-level cooperation.

Reference: The Statesman, India Today

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