Prior to this, ships from the Brazilian, Indian and South African navies will be alongside in Simon’s Town preparing for the two sea phases and an operation that makes up the inter-operability and mutual understanding aspects of the exercise.

As host, the SA Navy will have the Valour Class frigate SAS Spioenkop, the Heroine Class submarine SAS Manthatisi, the mine countermeasures vessel SAS Umhloti and an as yet unnamed offshore patrol vessel taking part. Spioenkop will also have a Super Lynx 300 operated by 22 Squadron aboard for the sea phases of Ibsamar.

Drills and manoeuvres expected to form part of Ibsamar include anti-submarine warfare; visit, board, search and seizure and replenishment at sea (RAS).

Available: http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=36517;four-san-platforms-allocated-to-tri-nation-naval-exercise&catid=51;Sea&Itemid=106