The Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC-22) is an anticipated event in the maritime calendar. The exercises will occur near the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California from June 29 to August 4. It is a multi-dimensional activity involving 27 countries, making it one of the world’s most prominent biennial multilateral naval exercises.
Overview of RIMPAC-22
Launched in 1971, the RIMPAC is led by the United States and initially included Australia and Canada. It evolved from an annual event to a biennial one from 1974. The goal of RIMPAC is to improve interoperability and cultivate trust between the navies of friendly foreign countries.
The theme for the 2022 exercise is “Capable, Adaptive, Partners.”
India’s Involvement in RIMPAC
India first partook in the RIMPAC in 2014, represented by the Shivalik class stealth frigate INS Sahyadri. The same ship participated again in the 2018 edition. In 2016, INS Satpura joined the exercise.
Prior to 2014, India’s role in these war games was solely observational, as seen in the 2006, 2010, and 2012 editions. For the present edition, INS Satpura and the P8I maritime patrol aircraft represent the Indian Navy.
Exploring the Features of P81 Maritime Patrol Aircraft
Boeing manufactures the P-8I, a long-range, multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft, for the Indian Navy. The aircraft’s primary function is the protection of India’s coastline and territorial waters. Its capabilities extend to conducting anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), intelligence gathering, maritime patrol, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
INS Satpura – A closer look
The INS Satpura is a domestically designed and constructed 6000-tonne guided missile stealth frigate. It boasts the ability to seek and destroy enemies on air, surface, and underwater.
A frontline unit of the Eastern Fleet based in Visakhapatnam, INS Satpura is currently an extended operational deployment in the 75th year of India’s Independence.
The RIMPAC-22 is an important event that showcases military capabilities and enhances international cooperation amongst friendly nations. This significant exercise also provides a platform for countries like India to exhibit their own naval and technological prowess on a global stage.
Information source: PIB
