En route to the Middle East and operation Manitou, Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Newcastle made a port visit to Cochin, India, building on relationships recently made on exercises in Australian waters.
As a continuation of exercise Ausindex, the visit allowed for the strengthening of international relations between Australia and India, and gave the crew the opportunity to experience the culture India has to offer.
There were many notable interactions between Newcastle and the Indian Navy which allowed each group to gain an appreciation for how the other operated.
After concluding the port visit, Newcastle departed Cochin in company with INS Sunayna.
The two ships conducted a passage exercise including replenishment at sea approaches, the exchange of gifts via light line messenger, and the conduct of officer of the watch manoeuvres and boat drills.
Newcastle departed to continue towards her operational deployment in the Middle East supporting international efforts to promote maritime stability and security.