New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS): The Union Defence Ministry on Friday said that ships of the First Training Squadron (1TS) -- INS Tir, INS Sujata, INS Sudarshini and ICGS Sarathi -- visited Phuket, Thailand, as part of a long-range training deployment.
During the visit from Monday to Thursday, personnel from the Indian and Thai navies engaged in cross training visits, professional interaction, sports fixtures and joint yoga sessions, the Ministry said.
As part of the Maritime Training Partnership Ex with Royal Thai Naval Ship Klaeng, cross embarkation of trainees, manouvers, approaches for replenishments at sea were conducted.
Upon its arrival, the ships received a warm welcome from the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) amidst fanfare of an RTN band.
Senior 1TS officer, Capt Sarvpreet Singh along with commanding officers of the ships called on Rear Admiral Puchong Rodnikron Chief of Staff, Third Naval Area Command.
A reception was also hosted onboard INS Tir for Chief of Staff, Third Naval Area Command along with RTN officers and members of Indian diaspora.
The ships were open for visitors and school childen.
The trainees of 1TS visited Naval Academy at Phang Nga Naval Base, the Ministry said.
"The visit reinforced maritime linkages and consolidates strong bond of friendship between the two Navies," it added.