Port Blair, Nov. 9: The27^th Cycle of Indo-Thai Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) is being conducted from 08 -16 Nov 18. An Indian Naval ship and an aircraft of Andaman and Nicobar Command and the Royal Thai Navy have been participating in the biannual CORPAT since 2003. The objectives of the Indo-Thai CORPATs are to ensure effective implementation of United Nations Conventions on Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS) which specify regulations regarding protection and conservation of marine environment, prevention and suppression of illegal fishing activity, drug trafficking, piracy, smuggling and illegal immigration. The CORPATs also help in honing skills for conduct of Joint Search and Rescue operations at sea.

Single Planning conference for the 27^th cycle of Indo-Thai CORPAT was conducted on 08 Nov 18 to discuss the details of the patrol and exercises between ships/aircraft of both the Navies. The closing ceremony is planned at Phuket, Thailand from 14 Nov 18 onwards. 

This cycle of Indo-Thai CORPAT is poised to further strengthen strong bilateral ties and maritime cooperation between Indian and Thailand. The CORPAT is reflective of the strong desire by both the countries for a peaceful Indian Ocean Region.