The MALABAR 2024 Opening Ceremony was held on October 9 aboard the Indian Naval Ship Satpura, organized by the Eastern Naval Command. This 28th iteration of the multi-national maritime exercise started on October 8 and is set to run until October 18.
Initially launched in 1992 as a bilateral exercise between India and the United States, MALABAR has since evolved into a vital maritime collaboration, with Japan and Australia joining the exercise in subsequent years.
The ceremony was hosted by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command. It was attended by senior naval and military dignitaries from the participating nations, including General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, Japan; Admiral Stephen Koehler, Commander of the US Pacific Fleet; VAdm Katsushi Omachi, Commander of the Japan Self-Defence Fleet; and RAdm Chris Smith, Commander of the Australian Fleet. Crew members and planning staff from Australia, India, Japan, and the USA were also present, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the exercise.
During the ceremony, commanders from all participating navies emphasized the significance of MALABAR in enhancing mutual understanding, collaboration, and engagement in addressing common maritime challenges, thereby fostering a cooperative framework.
MALABAR 2024 will unfold in two distinct phases, taking place both in harbour and at sea. The exercise will feature live weapon firings, complex surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare drills, as well as joint manoeuvres. Participants will include a diverse array of naval assets, such as destroyers, frigates, corvettes, fleet support ships, long-range maritime patrol aircraft, jet aircraft, integral helicopters, and submarines.
This multinational exercise aims to strengthen the capabilities of like-minded nations to train and operate jointly, establishing the synergy essential for achieving shared objectives. MALABAR 2024 aligns with the Indian Government’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and reflects India’s expanding engagement with partner nations.