India's active participation at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2009
February 22, 2009

India is actively participating at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2009, taking place in Abu Dhabi, UAE at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) between 22-26 February, 2009. INS Sarvekshak, a hydrographic survey vessel of the Indian Navy has docked at Abu Dhabi port on February 21, 2009 to participate in the exhibition. The ship is eighth in the series of the Navy’s hydrographic survey fleet which reflects the technological advancement of Indian shipbuilding industry. The indigenously designed and constructed INS Sarvekshak has superior design features and is equipped with the latest survey and hydrographic equipment, machinery, navigational and communication aids and sensors. It is built by Goa Shipyard Limited and was commissioned in the Indian Navy in January 2002. Captain Vinay Badhwar, N. M., is the Commanding Officer of the vessel. In addition, Ordinance Factory Board, Kolkata has set up its pavilion at IDEX 2009.

The biannual International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) is one of the world’s largest defence exhibitions showcasing systems, equipment and services for all kinds of defence-related environments. IDEX 2009 is the 9th edition of the event. It is officially supported by the UAE Government and coordinated with the active assistance of the UAE Armed Forces. About 900 exhibitors from 50 countries as well as 32 national pavilions are participating in the event.

Participation from Indian side is an indication of the growing defence co-operation between India and UAE subsequent to the signing of the defence co-operation agreement between the two countries in 2003.