The Maritime Exercise Malabar 2024 is scheduled from October 8 to 18, starting with the Harbour Phase in Visakhapatnam, followed by the Sea Phase. Hosted by India, this year’s exercise will involve participation from Australia, Japan, and the United States.
History
Initially a bilateral drill between the US and Indian Navies in 1992, Exercise Malabar has evolved into a crucial multilateral event. Its primary goals are to enhance interoperability, foster mutual understanding, and address shared maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions.
Naval Participation
The Indian Navy will deploy a range of platforms, including:
- Guided missile destroyers
- Frigates
- Submarines
- Aircraft
Australia, the US, and Japan will also contribute:
- Warships
- Helicopters
- Maritime patrol aircraft
Additionally, Special Forces from all four nations will participate in the exercise.
Focus Areas
Malabar 2024 will emphasize enhancing cooperation through various activities, including:
- Anti-submarine warfare
- Air defence
- Surface warfare operations
Special Events
A Distinguished Visitors’ Day is scheduled for October 9, where Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar will host delegations from the participating nations. Additionally, a Joint Press Conference will be held during the Harbour Phase.
Expectations
This year’s edition is anticipated to be the most comprehensive, featuring complex operational scenarios at sea.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When is the Maritime Exercise Malabar 2024 scheduled to take place?
- A) October 1 to 10
- B) October 8 to 18
- C) October 15 to 25
- D) October 20 to 30
Answer: B) October 8 to 18
- Which countries are participating in Malabar 2024?
- A) India, Russia, and China
- B) India, Australia, Japan, and the United States
- C) India, Canada, and the United Kingdom
- D) India, France, and Germany
Answer: B) India, Australia, Japan, and the United States
- What was the original purpose of Exercise Malabar?
- A) To showcase naval technology
- B) As a bilateral drill between the US and Indian Navies
- C) To train Special Forces
- D) To conduct humanitarian missions
Answer: B) As a bilateral drill between the US and Indian Navies
- What types of naval platforms will the Indian Navy deploy during Malabar 2024?
- A) Only submarines
- B) Guided missile destroyers, frigates, submarines, and aircraft
- C) Fishing boats and patrol vessels
- D) Cargo ships
Answer: B) Guided missile destroyers, frigates, submarines, and aircraft
- What is a key focus area for Malabar 2024?
- A) Anti-submarine warfare
- B) Peacekeeping operations
- C) Disaster relief
- D) Maritime security assessments
Answer: A) Anti-submarine warfare
- Who will host the Distinguished Visitors’ Day on October 9?
- A) The Prime Minister of India
- B) The Chief of Naval Staff
- C) Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar
- D) The President of the United States
Answer: C) Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar