After inking a security cooperation agreement with Maldives last year,India has decided to significantly upgrade defence ties with Seychelles and provide the island nation a maritime surveillance aircraft and two helicopters,besides intensifying patrolling operations in the countrys Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The cooperation,which includes enhanced training and capacity building of the nations forces,was finalised after Seychelles requested India to assist it in dealing with the increased threat of piracy near its waters. The decision to increase cooperation was announced during Defence Minister A K Antonys visit to the nation. The minster is leading a high-powered delegation to the country. The aircraft are being provided over and above a $ 5 million assistance to the island nation for defence-related projects to strengthen its security forces. The two Chetak helicopters and a Dornier maritime surveillance aircraft will be delivered in just over a year. The orders for the aircraft have been placed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The Indian Navy will also make additional visits this year to conduct surveillance and hydrographic survey. During these visits,Seychelles personnel can embark on board the Indian Navy Ships for maintenance training and conduct drills and exercises, said Defence Minister AK Antony whose delegation includes Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar and Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral DK Dewan,said. India will also deploy a maritime surveillance aircraft of either the Navy or the coast guard to Seychelles at the earliest. These aircraft will be employed for EEZ surveillance and will help identify pirate vessels in the region. India had first deployed the INS Nirdeshak,after an urgent request by Seychelles in April last year. India now keeps a warship permanently in the area.
