Daily Current Affairs : 11-August-2023
Exercise MALABAR, an annual maritime exercise, holds a special place in the Indian Navy’s calendar. It represents a collaborative effort between multiple nations to enhance naval capabilities, foster cooperation, and strengthen maritime security. In the upcoming 27th edition of the exercise, two of India’s indigenous frontline warships, INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata, will proudly participate. This event underscores the evolving prowess of the Indian Navy on the global stage.
Historical Evolution of MALABAR Exercises
The inception of the MALABAR series dates back to 1992 when it was initiated as a bilateral exercise exclusively between the Indian Navy and the US Navy. The primary aim was to engage in joint training and improve interoperability. A significant turning point occurred in 2015 when Japan joined the exercises, expanding the scope and scale of the drills. This cooperation was further expanded in the 2020 edition with the inclusion of the Australian Navy, underscoring the exercise’s growing importance in the Asia-Pacific region.
MALABAR 2023: A Multinational Affair
The 27th edition of Exercise MALABAR takes place this year and is hosted by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). It is set to witness the participation of not only the Indian Navy but also the US Navy (USN), Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). This collective participation reflects the exercise’s reputation as a platform for fostering camaraderie, mutual understanding, and the exchange of best practices among diverse naval forces.
The Participants: INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata
INS Sahyadri: A Jewel in India’s Naval Fleet
INS Sahyadri, one of the indigenous frontline warships, is a crucial participant in Exercise MALABAR 2023. It belongs to the Project-17 class of multi-role stealth frigates, symbolizing India’s strides in naval engineering and design. Crafted with ingenuity and precision, INS Sahyadri embodies the nation’s determination to establish itself as a formidable naval power.
INS Kolkata: A Triumph of Indigenous Expertise
Leading the way for Indian naval prowess is INS Kolkata, the flagship vessel of the Project-15A class destroyers. Its participation in Exercise MALABAR 2023 is a testament to India’s burgeoning self-reliance in naval technology. INS Kolkata stands as a testament to the nation’s ability to construct and deploy cutting-edge naval assets.
Mazagon Dock Ltd: The Cradle of Naval Excellence
Both INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata have a common origin – the Mazagon Dock Ltd in Mumbai. This premier shipyard has proven its mettle by producing these advanced vessels equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and sensors. These ships stand as an epitome of indigenous innovation and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Important Points:
- Exercise MALABAR: Annual maritime exercise showcasing naval capabilities.
- Collaboration: Joint effort among nations to enhance naval prowess and maritime security.
- 27th Edition: India’s indigenous frontline warships INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata to participate.
- Historical Evolution:
- Began in 1992 as bilateral exercise between Indian Navy and US Navy.
- Japan joined in 2015, expanding the exercise’s scope.
- Australian Navy joined in 2020, emphasizing its significance in the Asia-Pacific region.
- MALABAR 2023:
- Hosted by Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
- Participation from US Navy (USN), Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), and RAN.
- INS Sahyadri:
- Indigenous multi-role stealth frigate.
- Part of Project-17 class.
- INS Kolkata:
- Indigenous destroyer, flagship of Project-15A class.
- Demonstrates India’s naval self-reliance.
- Mazagon Dock Ltd, Mumbai:
- Construction hub for INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata.
- Equipped ships with advanced weaponry and sensors.
- Maritime Symphony of Cooperation:
- Exercise symbolizes collaborative security efforts.
- Showcases India’s naval capabilities.
- Reflects unity among nations for regional stability and global security.
Why In News
The Indian Navy’s indigenously built frontline warships, INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata, are set to strengthen their operational readiness as they eagerly participate in Exercise MALABAR 2023, a high-profile naval drill. This annual joint exercise, known for enhancing maritime cooperation, will witness the prowess of these advanced vessels, showcasing India’s commitment to maritime security.
MCQs about Indian Naval Excellence in MALABAR 2023
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What is the primary purpose of Exercise MALABAR?
A. To display naval capabilities to the public.
B. To engage in joint training and enhance naval capabilities.
C. To compete with other nations in naval exercises.
D. To demonstrate air force superiority.
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Which country is hosting Exercise MALABAR 2023?
A. India
B. United States
C. Japan
D. Australia
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Which class do INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata belong to?
A. Project-17 class destroyers
B. Project-15A class frigates
C. Project-17 class frigates
D. Project-15A class destroyers
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What does the participation of INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata in Exercise MALABAR 2023 signify?
A. A competition between naval forces.
B. A display of advanced naval technologies.
C. India’s commitment to collaborative security efforts.
D. An opportunity for warship manufacturing companies.
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