In a landmark step for India–South Africa defence cooperation, the Indian Navy has successfully completed the Rescue Seat Certification of the South African Navy submarine SAS Manthatisi, the first such certification undertaken for any Friendly Foreign Navy.
The certification, carried out in South Africa, enables the Indian Navy to deploy its Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) to assist South African submarine crews in case of distress. This achievement follows the Submarine Rescue and Cooperation Implementation Agreement signed in September 2024 between Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, Chief of the South African Navy.
Indian Navy officials met Rear Admiral Handsome Matsane, Flag Officer of the South African Navy Fleet, and engaged with South Africa’s Armscor Dockyard, Institute of Maritime Technology, and naval technical teams during the visit. The certification process included rigorous training and evaluation, underscoring the Indian Navy’s commitment to maritime safety and operational readiness.
This development builds on the outcomes of the 9th Joint Defence Committee meeting held in Johannesburg in June 2025, where Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh led the Indian delegation. The two nations exchanged new agreements in the submarine cooperation domain and reaffirmed their shared vision for a secure Indian Ocean Region.
India and South Africa’s defence ties date back to 1996, with multiple agreements over the years enhancing cooperation in equipment, training, and joint operations. The successful certification is seen as a significant step forward in strengthening this strategic partnership.
