In their largest ever war-game, the Indian Navy has amassed a large number of ships, submarines, aircraft carrier, and helicopters in the Arabian Sea to conduct a "theatre readiness operational exercise" called "Tropex." As part of its bilateral agreement with Pakistan and given the proximity of operations, New Delhi has given Islamabad advanced notice.
Closely monitored by Navy Chief Admiral Sureesh Mehta and Army Chief General J.J. Singh, the Navy will amass the fleet and assume "tactical phase" later in February. According to the Navy, over 50 frontline ships including aircraft carrier INS Viraat and Delhi-class destroyers, Talwar-class stealth frigates, and Kilo-class submarines will participate in Tropex. In addition, "elements" from the Army, Indian Air Force (IAF), and Coast Guard will also participate. The IAF is expected to field maritime strike Jaguar fighters.
Apart from the sheer size of the exercise, Tropex is supposed to demonstrate how
a high-intensity and short conflict can be influenced by "maritime maneuver"
where the
Navy can influence a land-air battle situation.
