Four Nations Unite: India Welcomes Australia, Japan, and U.S. for Thrilling Malabar 2024 Exercise

VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA – On October 9, Australia, Japan, and U.S. forces joined the Indian Navy to inaugurate the Malabar 2024 field-training exercise in Vishakhapatnam. This significant event opens with a formal ceremony followed by extensive at-sea exercises in the Bay of Bengal.

Adm. Steve Koehler, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “Malabar is a great example of a combined team operating together to deter conflict and reinforce our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.” This year’s exercise marks the 28th iteration since its inception in 1992, now involving Japan and Australia as critical participants along with longtime partners India and the U.S.

Vice Adm. Rajesh Pendharkar of India’s Eastern Naval Command highlighted the exercise’s role in enhancing operational synergy and strengthening bonds among participating nations. The exercise will focus on combined training across multiple domains including surface, sub-surface, air, and information warfare, involving eight ships and nearly a dozen aircraft.

Japan’s Vice Adm. Katsushi Omachi praised the growing collaboration, stating that Malabar will contribute to regional peace and stability. Representing Japan is the Murasame-class destroyer JS Ariake. The U.S. contribution includes the P-8 Poseidon aircraft and USS Dewey, alongside representatives from Australia and India with formidable naval assets.

Commodore Jonathan Ley of Australia noted the exercise’s significance in deepening interoperability among regional partners, underscoring Australia’s continued engagement following its hosting duties last year.

The leadership and location of Malabar rotate annually among participants, with India taking the helm this year. Such exercises showcase the capacity of these nations to operate cohesively across the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing a collaborative approach to maintaining maritime security.