Visakhapatnam: The Opening Ceremony of MALABAR 2024, under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command, took place onboard Indian Naval Ship Satpura on October 9, 2024. This 28th edition of the multi-national maritime exercise, which commenced on October 8, will run until October 18, 2024. Originally initiated in 1992 as a bilateral exercise between India and the United States, MALABAR has evolved into a crucial maritime engagement, with Japan and Australia joining in subsequent years.
The ceremony was hosted by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, and attended by senior naval and military dignitaries from the participating nations. Among the notable attendees were General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, Japan; Admiral Stephen Koehler, Commander of the US Pacific Fleet; Vice Admiral Katsushi Omachi, Commander of the Japan Self Defence Fleet; and Rear Admiral Chris Smith, Commander of the Australian Fleet. The event also saw participation from the crew and planning staff of ships, aircraft, and special forces from Australia, India, Japan, and the USA.
During the ceremony, the commanders of the participating navies underscored the significance of Exercise MALABAR in enhancing understanding, collaboration, and engagement to address common maritime challenges and establish a cooperative framework among nations.
MALABAR 2024 will be conducted in two distinct phases, both in harbour and at sea. The exercise will feature live weapon firings, complex surface operations, anti-air and anti-submarine warfare drills, and joint manoeuvres. This high-tempo event will include the participation of destroyers, frigates, corvettes, and fleet support ships, alongside long-range maritime patrol aircraft, jet aircraft, integral helicopters, and submarine assets.
The exercise aims to bring together like-minded nations to enhance their ability to train and operate jointly, fostering the synergy essential for achieving shared objectives. MALABAR 2024 aligns with the Indian Government’s vision of Security & Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), reflecting India’s growing engagement with partner nations committed to maritime security and cooperation.