The 8th edition of INDRA NAVY-15, a bilateral maritime joint naval exercise between the Indian and Russian navies epitomising the strategic relationship between the two countries gets underway today in Visakhapatnam. The exercise will be another milestone in strengthening maritime security cooperation between the two navies and will also serve to reinforce the long-standing bond of friendship.<br/><br/>AIR correspondent reports, the primary aim of the exercise is to increase interoperability between the two navies and develop common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations. The scope of INDRA NAVY- 15 includes wide- ranging professional interactions during the Harbour phase and a diverse canvas of operational activities at sea across a spectrum of maritime operations. The Harbour Phase of the exercise last for three days till 9th December at Visakhapatnam, while the Sea Phase will be from 10-12th December off Visakhapatnam at Sea.<br/><br/>The Harbour Phase would encompass table-top exercises and planning conferences ashore, prior to progressing to sea. The Sea Phase would include various facets of fleet operations. During the bilateral exercise the Indian Navy will be represented by INS Sahyadri an indigenous frigate, INS Ranvijay, a guided missile destroyer and INS Shakti a Fleet Support Ship. In addition, a submarine, INS Sindhuvir, the P81 Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Dornier Short Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer and other integral rotary wing helicopters.<br/><br/> The Russian Federation Navy (RFN) will be represented by ships from the Pacific Fleet, based at Vladivostok. The ships include Varyag-a cruiser, Bystry-a destroyer, Alatau-a rescue ocean going tug and Boris Butoma-a fleet tanker during the exercise. Initiated in 2003, the exercise has matured over the years with increasing scope, complexity of operations and level of participation.