Africa India Key Maritime Engagement Exercise and IOS Sagar

Recent developments have brought into light the Indian Navy’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The backdrop of increased Chinese influence in Africa and ongoing threats from piracy and Houthi rebels has prompted India to enhance its maritime cooperation. Notably, two initiatives have been announced – the multinational exercise ‘Africa India Key Maritime Engagement’ (AIKEYME) and the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar.

AIKEYME Exercise

AIKEYME is a multinational naval exercise involving ten African countries. It aims to encourage collaboration on maritime security. The exercise will take place off the coast of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. It is co-hosted by the Indian Navy and the Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force. The exercise spans six days and will include various activities focusing on piracy and maritime safety.

IOS Sagar Initiative

The IOS Sagar initiative involves deploying the offshore patrol vessel INS Sunayna to the Southwest IOR. This deployment will occur from April 5 to May 8, 2025. The vessel will have a combined crew of Indian personnel and 44 members from nine African nations. The ship will visit ports in Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, Seychelles, and the Maldives. The initiative aims to conduct joint surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and enhance regional maritime security.

Training and Capacity Building

Participants from friendly foreign countries (FFC) will undergo a two-week training programme in Kochi. This training will cover naval professional skills, sea activities, and watchkeeping. The aim is to build capacity and improve operational readiness among the participating nations. The training is critical for encouraging interoperability during joint operations.

Previous Collaborations

The Indian Navy has actively engaged with IOR nations over the past decade. Initiatives have included joint naval exercises, coordinated patrols, and humanitarian assistance efforts. These collaborations have strengthened diplomatic ties and enhanced regional maritime security.

Strategic Importance

The initiatives are part of India’s broader strategy to establish itself as a preferred security partner in the IOR. The Indian Navy aims to respond effectively to maritime threats and promote stability in the region. The emphasis on cooperation underlines India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and those of its partners.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of China’s presence in Africa on regional security dynamics.
2. What is the significance of the Indian Ocean Region in global maritime trade? Discuss its strategic importance.
3. Point out the key objectives of the Indian Navy’s AIKEYME exercise and evaluate its potential outcomes.
4. Estimate the challenges faced by the Indian Navy in enhancing maritime cooperation with African nations and suggest possible solutions.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of China’s presence in Africa on regional security dynamics.

1. China’s investment in infrastructure and resources in Africa has increased its influence and presence.
2. This presence can lead to geopolitical tensions, particularly with Western nations and India.
3. China’s support for authoritarian regimes may undermine democratic governance and stability.
4. Increased military cooperation from China could escalate regional arms races and conflicts.
5. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) encourages dependency, impacting local economies and sovereignty.

2. What is the significance of the Indian Ocean Region in global maritime trade? Discuss its strategic importance.

1. The Indian Ocean is important trade route, facilitating over 80% of global maritime trade.
2. It connects major economies, including India, China, and the Middle East, enhancing economic interdependence.
3. Control of shipping lanes in the region is vital for energy security and trade flow.
4. The region’s strategic chokepoints, like the Strait of Hormuz and Malacca, are critical for global shipping.
5. Geopolitical interests from various nations make the IOR a focal point for military presence and alliances.

3. Point out the key objectives of the Indian Navy’s AIKEYME exercise and evaluate its potential outcomes.

1. AIKEYME aims to enhance maritime security cooperation among participating nations.
2. The exercise focuses on combating piracy and improving information sharing protocols.
3. It seeks to strengthen naval capabilities and interoperability among regional navies.
4. Potential outcomes include improved regional stability and collaborative response to threats.
5. Successful execution may boost India’s influence as a security partner in the IOR.

4. Estimate the challenges faced by the Indian Navy in enhancing maritime cooperation with African nations and suggest possible solutions.

1. Challenges include varying levels of naval capability and resources among African nations.
2. Political instability in some regions may hinder cooperative efforts and trust-building.
3. Geographic distance and logistical issues can complicate joint operations and training.
4. Solutions could involve tailored capacity-building programs and increased diplomatic engagement.
5. Establishing regular communication channels and joint exercises can encourage stronger partnerships.