Indian Navy Showcases Submarine Rescue Capability at XPR-25, Singapore

Event Overview

• Exercise: XPR-25 (Submarine Rescue Exercise)
• Host: Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)
• Dates: 15–25 September 2025
• Participation: Over 40 nations

Phases of the Exercise

• Shore Phase: 15–20 September 2025
• Sea Phase: 21–25 September 2025
• Aim: Enhance coordination and interoperability in submarine rescue operations.

Indian Navy’s Participation

• Platform: INS Nistar carrying the Submarine Rescue Unit (East).
• Role: Operated alongside:
  • MV Swift Rescue (Republic of Singapore Navy)
  • JS Chiyoda (Japan)
• Conducted rescue drills with submarines from:
  • Republic of Korea Navy
  • Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF)
  • Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)
• Submarines simulated as Disabled Submarines (DISSUBs) for realistic rescue scenarios.

Significance for India

• Watershed Moment:
  • First-ever foreign submarine matings by the Indian Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV).
  • Successful participation in a multinational coordinated rescue drill.
• Reinforces India’s:
  • Global submarine rescue capability.
  • Commitment to international submarine safety frameworks.
  • Growing stature as a reliable maritime partner in the Indo-Pacific.