Being hosted by India, Exercise Malabar 2024 will centre on a range of activities designed to enhance operational capabilities and cooperation among the navies
This year’s edition of the joint maritime Exercise Malabar, being hosted by India, is set to be the most comprehensive yet. The multilateral naval drill which will take place in Visakhapatnam, and off India’s eastern coast from October 8-18, 2024, will see participation from Australia, Japan, and the United States in addition to host India. The exercise aims to strengthen regional security, enhance interoperability among the participating navies, and promote stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

“Malabar 2024 is expected to be the most comprehensive version of all editions so far, incorporating complex operational scenarios,” India’s Ministry of Defence said on Sunday (October 6, 2024).
 
Exercise Malabar began in 1992 as a bilateral exercise between the United States Navy and the Indian Navy. Over the years, it has transformed into a key multilateral event, expanding its scope and objectives. With the inclusion of Australia and Japan, the exercise now serves as a platform to address shared maritime challenges and foster cooperation among the four participating nations.

The exercise is divided into two main phases: the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase. The Harbour Phase will be conducted in Visakhapatnam from October 8, followed by the Sea Phase, which will take place off the coast. 

During the Harbour Phase, various briefings, professional exchanges, and joint planning sessions will occur, laying the groundwork for the complex operations to follow at sea. This phase will also include a Distinguished Visitors’ Day on October 9, where delegations from all four nations will be hosted by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command. The day will feature a joint press conference, co-chaired by the heads of the participating delegations.

Naval Assets and Special Forces Participation
India will deploy an impressive array of naval platforms, including guided missile destroyers, multi-purpose frigates, submarines, fixed-wing maritime reconnaissance (MR) aircraft, fighter jets, and helicopters.

Australia will contribute with HMAS Stuart, an Anzac-class frigate equipped with an MH-60R helicopter and P-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft. The United States Navy will deploy the USS Dewey, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, accompanied by its integral helicopter and P-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft. Japan will participate with JS Ariake, a Murasame-class destroyer. In addition to these naval assets, Special Forces units from all four nations will engage in the exercise, enhancing their collaboration on special operations and tactics.

Malabar 2024 will centre on a range of activities designed to enhance operational capabilities and cooperation among the navies. Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) will focus on specialised areas such as anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, air defence, and maritime domain awareness. These discussions will be instrumental in sharing knowledge, strategies, and best practices, allowing the forces to synchronise their efforts effectively.

The Sea Phase will include a series of complex maritime operations, emphasising surface and air warfare tactics and anti-submarine manoeuvres. The exercise will test the navies’ abilities to operate cohesively in multi-threat environments, improving situational awareness and response strategies in the maritime domain

By integrating advanced platforms, conducting complex manoeuvres, and enhancing interoperability, the exercise aims to build trust and strengthen ties between the navies. The focus on anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, and air defence operations will prepare the participants for a wide range of maritime threats, ensuring a robust and unified response capability.

Exercise Malabar 2024 represents a crucial opportunity for India, Australia, Japan, and the United States to strengthen their maritime partnership and enhance regional security. As the exercise unfolds, it will serve as a testament to the growing collaboration and shared vision for a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. With India at the helm, this edition of Malabar sets the stage for continued cooperation and a unified approach to maritime challenges in the years to come.