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.