The 27th edition of Exercise MALABAR, held off the East Coast of Australia, concluded on August 21, 2023. The exercise featured participation from the Indian Navy (IN), Royal Australian Navy (RAN), Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), and the US Navy (USN).
Conducted in two phases—harbour and sea—the event involved ships, submarines, and aircraft. Notable contributions included the INS Kolkata, INS Sahyadri, P8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft, HMAS Choules, HMAS Brisbane, USS Raphael Peralta, and JS Shiranui. Complex exercises across air, surface, and undersea domains, along with joint operations, showcased naval prowess, interoperability, and commitment to regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
What to study for prelims?
- Indo-Pacific: The Indo-Pacific refers to the maritime region encompassing the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean. It holds strategic importance and is a focus area for geopolitical and economic interactions.
- Interoperability: Interoperability signifies the capability of different military units or forces to work seamlessly together, often involving communication, equipment compatibility, and shared tactics.
- P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft: The P-8I is a variant of the Boeing P-8 Poseidon, designed for maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, and reconnaissance. It is employed for surveillance and monitoring maritime activities.
- Cross Deck Helicopter Operations: Cross deck helicopter operations involve landing and take-off of helicopters from different naval vessels. This capability enhances flexibility and tactical options during maritime operations.
