From March 31 to April 1, in the waters bordering Vietnam and Thailand, naval task forces from both countries coordinated a joint patrol along six routes, covering a total distance of over 430 nautical miles.
During the patrol, both sides carried out several joint exercises, including the Hello ASEAN greeting procedure between ASEAN naval vessels, information exchange, target reporting drills for watch officers, hand flag, light, and whistle signal training according to the International Code of Signals, search and rescue drills, and the implementation of the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES) for Western Pacific navies.
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The two navies conduct hand flag training during the joint patrol. |
Colonel Nguyen Van Cuong, Commander of Brigade 175 and leader of the Vietnamese Navy’s patrol task force stated that despite unfavourable weather conditions, naval task forces from both countries successfully overcame difficulties and fully executed all activities following the joint patrol regulations and the communication channel agreement between the Vietnam People’s Navy and the Royal Thai Navy, signed by the naval commanders of both countries on June 14, 1999.
The 51st joint patrol was a great success thanks to thorough preparation and close coordination. It contributed to maintaining security and order in the Vietnam-Thailand border waters, facilitating maritime economic activities for the people of both nations while also fostering cooperation, mutual understanding, and trust between the two navies.
After completing the joint patrol, Ship 421 and a delegation from the Royal Thai Navy’s Region 1 set sail for a goodwill visit and exchange with Vietnam People’s Navy’s Region 5.
