Monday, September 12 2005 15:44 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kochi: The 12-day Indo-US joint Naval exercise, called 'SALVEX', began off Kochi today (Sept 12, 2005) with the commencement of the harbour phase of the exercises.

As part of this phase, training and professional discussions between the two navies would be held. The exercise, which will focus on diving and salvage operations, will continue till September 23, naval sources said.

The US naval ship USS Safeguard is here to participate in the exercise along with Indian naval diving team and INS Matanga.

SALVEX is the first combined diving salvage exercise being conducted between the two navies, which regularly conduct the 'Malabar' series of bilateral exercises. SALVEX is part of this ongoing cooperation.