The 28th edition of the multinational maritime exercise MALABAR 2024 was officially inaugurated today aboard the Indian Naval Ship Satpura at Visakhapatnam, under the leadership of the Eastern Naval Command. The exercise, which began on October 8 and will continue until October 18, 2024, marks a significant event in the maritime security calendar.
Originally initiated in 1992 as a bilateral exercise between India and the United States, MALABAR has grown into a key engagement with the inclusion of Japan and Australia in recent years, symbolizing strengthened international maritime cooperation.
The opening ceremony, hosted by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, saw attendance from senior naval and military officials from the four participating nations. Notable dignitaries included General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff of Japan’s Joint Staff, Admiral Stephen Koehler, Commander of the US Pacific Fleet, Vice Admiral Katsushi Omachi, Commander-in-Chief of Japan’s Self Defence Fleet, and Rear Admiral Chris Smith, Commander of the Australian Fleet. Representatives from the participating ships, aircraft, and special forces units from Australia, India, Japan, and the USA were also present at the event.
During the ceremony, the commanders of the participating navies emphasized the importance of the MALABAR exercise in fostering greater collaboration and engagement among like-minded nations. They highlighted the joint efforts in addressing common maritime challenges and reinforcing a cooperative framework for security in the region.
MALABAR 2024 will be conducted in two phases, both at sea and in harbor, with high-intensity drills including live weapon firings and complex surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare exercises. The exercise will feature destroyers, frigates, corvettes, fleet support ships, long-range maritime patrol aircraft, jet aircraft, helicopters, and submarines.
This joint exercise reflects India's commitment to fostering regional security through cooperative efforts, aligning with the government's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative. MALABAR 2024 is set to enhance the ability of these four nations to train and operate jointly, thereby contributing to their shared objectives in maintaining maritime peace and security.(pr)