SEA PHASE OF MALABAR 2024

16-Oct-2024

SEA PHASE OF MALABAR 2024

Science & Technology

Why in the News?

The Sea Phase of Exercise MALABAR 2024 began on 14^th October 2024 off the coast of Visakhapatnam with warships, helicopters and aircraft from Australia, India, Japan, and the USA participating. These advanced maritime drills focus on surface, sub-surface and air warfare, enhancing cooperation and operational synergy. The phase strengthens Indo-Pacific security and will conclude on 18^th October 2024.

About Malabar Exercise

Started: 1992 as a bilateral India-USA naval drill.
Current Participants: India, USA, Japan (since 2015), Australia (since 2020).
Focus: Maritime security, enhancing interoperability in surface, sub-surface, and air warfare.
Phases: Harbor Phase (planning, briefings) and Sea Phase (combat drills).
Significance: Strengthens defense ties among Quad nations ensures regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
2024 Focus: Advanced warfare operations and regional stability.

Naval warships, integral helicopters and long-range maritime patrol aircraft exercising in the Bay of Bengal.

QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue)

It is a strategic dialogue and diplomatic framework between India, USA, Japan, and Australia.
It addresses broader regional and global issues, including security, economic cooperation, and maintaining a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
It covers a wide range of issues, including climate change, health security, critical technology, infrastructure development, and countering terrorism. It emphasizes non-military cooperation as well.
It is seen as a strategic counterbalance to China’s growing influence in the region.
It promotes a rules-based international order.
While not a formal military alliance, it focuses on regional stability and partnerships.
The Malabar Exercise has become an important defense collaboration activity among Quad nations, but it is not officially a Quad exercise.