Cape Town [South Africa], August 12 (ANI): India strengthened maritime cooperation with South Africa on Tuesday as the Indian Navy carried out a landmark rescue seat certification for the SAS Manthatisi submarine — the first-ever such operation for a friendly foreign navy. The milestone enhances bilateral cooperation and submarine safety measures between the two nations.
The Navy spokesperson announced on X, “Strengthening bilateral ties, the #IndianNavy successfully undertook the Rescue Seat Certification of the #SouthAfricanNavy Submarine SAS Manthatisi, a first for any Friendly Foreign Navy.”
According to the statement, the certification enables the implementation of the Submarine Rescue and Cooperation Implementation Agreement signed on September 3, 2024, by Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi and South African Navy Chief Vice Admiral Monde Lobese. The agreement allows India to deploy its Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) to aid South African submarines in emergencies.
The recently completed certification ensures that Indian DSRVs can dock with the SAS Manthatisi during rescue missions. This marks the first time India has executed such a procedure for a foreign navy, demonstrating its expanding expertise in undersea rescue operations.
An Indian Navy team visited Simon’s Town in South Africa for the exercise, where it met Rear Admiral Handsome Matsane, Flag Officer of the South African Navy Fleet. The delegation also held technical discussions with ARMSCOR Dockyard, the Institute of Maritime Technology, and South African Navy engineers.
The Ministry of Defence noted that the Implementing Agreement underscores a shared commitment to maritime safety and mutual support. Officials said the initiative further reinforces the longstanding maritime relationship between India and South Africa.
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