The Indian Navy is preparing to launch the fourth edition of its extensive coastal defence exercise, ‘Sea Vigil-24,’ on November 20-21. This pan-India initiative aims to evaluate and enhance the preparedness of coastal security measures through collaboration involving six ministries and 21 different organizations and agencies.
In the lead-up to the exercise, naval officers have been directing the Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE) phase since late October across all coastal states and Union Territories, including the Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This critical phase includes a thorough audit of coastal defence and security infrastructure, ensuring its effectiveness and response capabilities.
Notably, for the first time, officials from the National Security Council Secretariat will participate alongside Indian Navy-led CDSRE teams, which will also include personnel from a range of agencies such as the state marine police, Coast Guard, customs, and fisheries departments. This year’s exercise will place a special focus on the security of vital coastal assets, including ports, oil rigs, moorings, cable landing sites, and other critical infrastructure essential for national safety.
Launched in 2018 in response to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, Sea Vigil was established to strengthen coastal defences along India’s extensive 11,098 km coastline and its vast Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.4 million square kilometers. This iteration of the exercise will see participation from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, enhancing operational tempo through a broader deployment of ships and aircraft.
Furthermore, a central theme of Sea Vigil is to foster maritime security awareness among coastal communities, including fishermen, local residents, and youth organizations such as the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and Bharat Scouts and Guides. While various state-led coastal security exercises take place routinely, Sea Vigil distinguishes itself as a comprehensive nationwide initiative managed by the Indian Navy, providing a cohesive assessment of India’s maritime security capabilities.
As a precursor to the biennial Theatre Level Readiness Operational Exercise (TROPEX), ‘Sea Vigil-24’ emphasizes India’s dedication to safeguarding its maritime boundaries and reinforcing collaboration among all stakeholders involved in coastal defence. This multifaceted approach aims to enhance readiness and foster a collective commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime interests.
