VISIT OF INDIAN NAVAL SHIPS TO BANDAR ABBAS, IRAN

1. Two Indian Naval Warships, INS Betwa and INS Beas are visiting Bandar-e-Abbas port from 28 Aug - 01 Sep 15, as part of a goodwill visit to further bilateral relations between both countries. The ships will undertake various professional interactions with their counterparts in the Iranian Navy, including exercises at sea. The visit would also include training and sports events between the navies of both countries. This deployment would add another chapter to the cordial relations and defencecooperation between India and Iran.

2. INS Betwa and INS Beas are indigenously designed and built Guided Missile Frigates of the Brahmaputra Class. The ships are 125 meters (about 400 feet) in length, displacing 3,600 tonnes and are capable of operating at extended ranges, with speeds up to 30 knots. They have state-of-the-art sensor suites andan impressive weapon package, including long range surface-to-surface missiles and anti-missile defence systems. Their combat capability is further augmented by the capability to embark two multi-mission capable seaKing helicopters.

3. It has been India's national objective to ensure a secure and stable regional environment, which is conducive for economic and social development not just at home, but also in immediate and extended neighbourhood. The Indian Navy, while shouldering its security responsibilities, is committed to these objectives and has been contributing towards humanitarian assistance, capacity building and capability enhancement of friendly foreign countries when so needed.

4. Iran and India relationship is centuries old. There is a great deal of commonality in their language, culture, and traditions. Contemporary relation is characterised by inter alia in the fields ofcommerce, energy, infrastructure and education. Traditional close relations have also been further strengthened by regular cultural exchanges, commercial interactions as well as bilateral meeting and high profile visits between both countries. Maritime security cooperation is an important area of cooperation between the two countries.

5. The Indian ships have completed over a decade of glorious service with the Indiannavy. INS Betwa is presently commanded by Captain KM Ramakrishanan and INS Beas is commanded by Captain Deepak Bhatia.