Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 21: The fourth edition of pan India Coastal Defence Exercise 'Sea Vigil-24' was conducted by Headquarters Andaman and Nicobar Command from 1321 Nov 24 for Andaman & Nicobar region. The aim of the exercise was to comprehensively validate the efficacy of the Coastal Defence response across the Andaman & Nicobar region against threats arising from the sea whilst catering for latest developments in technology and tactics in maritime warfare. In addition, the exercise aims to sustain a balanced focus between Coastal Defence and Coastal Security in the islets. The desired outcome of the exercise was to assess own readiness state and identify gaps (if any) in the existing defence mechanism. Interagency coordination was also assessed by activation of the complete Coastal Defence Mechanism.

The exercise was conducted in two phases. Phase I involved conduct of Coastal Defence & Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE) wherein, security agencies deployed personnel and assets to undertake validation of the Coastal Defence Mechanism from 13-19 Nov 24. During Phase II, simulated attacks and contingencies emanating from beyond the territorial waters were exercised from 20-21 Nov 24.

Sea Vigil involved participation of all stakeholders in Coastal Defence Mechanism including Andaman and Nicobar Command, A&N Administration, A&N Police, Police Marine Force (PMF), DSS, Special Bureau, PMB, Fisheries, NCC cadets & other agencies. The exercise was controlled and monitored by Joint Operations Centre (Coastal Security) at Headquarters, Andaman and Nicobar Command. The exercised brought out that the coastal security network was robust and the forces are ready to counter any infiltration attempt by adversary state/ non state actors.