Maritime Exercise ‘Malabar 2024’ Begins in Visakhapatnam
The Maritime Exercise ‘Malabar 2024’ is set to start on October 8 in Visakhapatnam, India. This year, India hosts the event, which includes participation from the Quad nations: Australia, Japan, and the United States.
Exercise Phases
The exercise will occur in two phases: the Harbour phase in Visakhapatnam and a subsequent sea phase. A special ‘Distinguished Visitors’ Day’ is scheduled for October 9, where Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar will host delegations from all four nations.
Joint Press Conference
A Joint Press Conference will be held during the Harbour phase, co-chaired by the heads of delegations from the participating countries.
History and Evolution
Exercise ‘Malabar’ began in 1992 as a bilateral naval drill between the United States and India. It has since evolved into a significant multilateral event aimed at enhancing interoperability and addressing shared maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region.
Participating Naval Forces
India will deploy various naval platforms, including guided missile destroyers, frigates, submarines, and aircraft. Australia will send HMAS Stuart, the United States will field USS Dewey, and Japan will participate with JS Ariake. Special Forces from all four nations will also join the exercise.
Focus and Activities
Malabar 2024 will focus on enhancing cooperation and operational capabilities through discussions on special operations, surface, air, and anti-submarine warfare. Complex maritime operations will be conducted at sea to improve situational awareness in the maritime domain.
This edition of Malabar is expected to be the most comprehensive, incorporating complex operational scenarios.
Doubts Revealed
Maritime Exercise -: A maritime exercise is a practice event where navies from different countries come together to train and work together at sea. It helps them learn how to cooperate and handle challenges in the ocean.
Malabar 2024 -: Malabar 2024 is the name of a specific maritime exercise happening in the year 2024. It involves several countries working together to improve their naval skills and teamwork.
Visakhapatnam -: Visakhapatnam is a city in India located on the eastern coast. It is known for its port and naval base, making it an important location for maritime activities.
Quad Nations -: Quad Nations refers to a group of four countries: Australia, Japan, the United States, and India. They work together on various issues, including security and defense.
Harbour phase -: The Harbour phase is the part of the exercise that takes place in the port or harbor. During this time, ships are docked, and crews prepare and plan for the activities at sea.
Sea phase -: The Sea phase is when the ships go out into the ocean to practice different naval operations. This is where most of the training and exercises happen.
Distinguished Visitors’ Day -: Distinguished Visitors’ Day is a special day during the exercise when important guests and officials are invited to watch and learn about the activities. It helps show the importance of the exercise.
Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar -: Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar is a high-ranking officer in the Indian Navy. He is responsible for overseeing and hosting the exercise in Visakhapatnam.
Interoperability -: Interoperability means the ability of different countries’ navies to work together smoothly. It ensures that they can communicate and operate effectively during joint missions.
