Goa, India — Representatives from Patrol squadron 16 (VP-16) met with Indian Navy
counterparts of Indian Naval Squadron (INS) 312 for a Subject Matter Expert Exchange
(SMEE) in Goa, India on Oct. 22.
Members from VP-16’s top combat aircrew, Crew 7, conduct training and shared their
technical knowledge with the Indian Navy P-8I squadrons. Purchased from the United
States, The Indian Navy P-8I maritime patrol aircraft has been in service since 2013 and
shares many similarities with the United States P-8A. As the first United States Navy
Maritime Patrol Squadron to transition the P-8A, VP-16 has substantial experience with
and knowledge about the platform to share with their Indian counterparts.
Commander Troy T. Tartaglia, VP-16’s commanding officer praised the crews from both
countries. “While our systems and training may differ, our missions remain the same.
The cross-training and cooperation afforded by this exchange allowed us to refine P-8
ASW capabilities, directly supporting our shared mission set.”
The exchange included a SMEE flight where aircraft from both Navies practiced
operating in the same location, simultaneously tracking an Indian Navy submarine.
Additionally, the two squadrons came together during multiple briefings to discuss
coordination between the P-8s when operating together, to include standardizing
altitude deconfliction, aircraft safety, tactical communication, and tactical employment of
the P-8I and P-8A aircraft.
Naval Air Crewman (Operator) Petty Officer 2 nd Class Crouch, described the exercise
as, “…A uniquely rewarding experience to work with the Indian Navy. Sharing our
different perspectives allowed us to better accomplish our missions while fostering
relationships.”
The United States and Indian SMEE played a vital role in furthering interoperability
between the two nations, fostering diplomatic relationships, and improving maritime
operational capabilities.
Patrol Squadron 16 is currently deployed to 4th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility,
conducting theater and national level tasking in support of U.S. Southern Command and
U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.