New Delhi, 19 October'2024.
MALABAR 2024, held under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command, commenced on October 8, 2024, and concluded on October 18, 2024. The exercise was officially launched aboard the Indian Naval Ship Satpura at Visakhapatnam on October 9. This 28th edition of the multi-national maritime exercise has gained significance since its inception in 1992 as a bilateral engagement between India and the United States, with Japan and Australia joining in subsequent years.
The ceremony, hosted by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, was attended by senior naval and military dignitaries from the participating nations. Key figures included General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff, Japan; Admiral Stephen Koehler, Commander of the US Pacific Fleet; Vice Admiral Katsushi Omachi, Commander of the Japan Self-Defense Fleet; and Rear Admiral Chris Smith, Commander of the Australian Fleet. The presence of the crews and planning staff from the ships, aircraft, and Special Forces of Australia, India, Japan, and the USA underscored the collaborative spirit of the exercise.
During the opening ceremony, commanders from all participating navies highlighted the significance of MALABAR in fostering understanding, collaboration, and engagement to tackle common maritime challenges. They emphasized the creation of a cooperative framework to address contemporary security issues in the maritime domain.
Two Distinct Phases: Harbour and Sea
MALABAR 2024 was structured into two distinct phases: the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase. The Harbour Phase featured various activities designed to build rapport and establish communication among the participating forces. This included a Distinguished Visitors’ Day, during which delegations from the participating nations had the opportunity to interact and engage with one another.
The exercise involved live weapon firings, intricate surface operations, anti-air drills, and anti-submarine warfare maneuvers. Various naval platforms, including destroyers, frigates, corvettes, and fleet support ships, were deployed alongside long-range maritime patrol aircraft, jet aircraft, integral helicopters, and submarines. This diverse array of assets demonstrated the capabilities of the participating nations and their commitment to maritime security.
The exercise aligns with India's vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and reflects India's increasing engagement with like-minded nations. It seeks to enhance joint training and operational capabilities among the participating forces, establishing the synergy necessary to achieve shared objectives.
Sea Phase: High-Tempo Operations
The Sea Phase commenced on October 14, 2024, off the coast of Visakhapatnam. Naval warships, along with embarked integral helicopters and long-range maritime patrol aircraft from Australia, India, Japan, and the USA, executed coordinated exercises in the Bay of Bengal. This phase highlighted a high level of operational synergy, showcasing the collective capabilities of the participating navies.
The Sea Phase featured a wide range of maritime warfare operations, covering surface, sub-surface, and air warfare domains. These advanced exercises were designed to deepen mutual understanding and coordination among the navies, facilitating seamless operations as a Combined Task Force at sea. Indian submarines participated in sub-surface warfare exercises, while combined drills involving Special Forces from each nation added another layer of complexity and collaboration.
Key exercises included surface weapon firings, anti-air shoots, air defense operations, and anti-submarine warfare drills. The extensive operations of shipborne helicopters, seamanship evolutions, and maritime interdiction operations played a critical role in honing the skills of the participating forces.
Conclusion: Commitment to Regional Stability
As MALABAR 2024 came to a close on October 18, it underscored the commitment of the participating nations to enhance understanding, collaboration, and engagement in the maritime domain. The closing ceremony provided a platform for navies to review the operational aspects of the Sea Phase and to interact, exchange views, and share best practices.
In an era defined by increasingly complex maritime security challenges, the importance of exercises like MALABAR cannot be overstated. They not only reinforce existing alliances but also contribute significantly to regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. This year's edition demonstrated the collective resolve of India, the USA, Japan, and Australia to uphold the principles of freedom and openness in the maritime domain, ensuring that cooperation prevails in the face of evolving threats. MALABAR 2024 stands as a testament to the shared aspirations of these nations to work together for a secure and prosperous maritime future.
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