In China’s Shadow, the Quad Navies Stand United to Secure the Indo-Pacific – Firstpost

As the 28th edition of the Malabar Naval Exercise unfolds in October 2024, the strategic significance of this event is heightened by the escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific, mainly driven by China’s assertive naval maneuvers. This year’s exercise, hosted by India in the Bay of Bengal, brings together the naval forces of the Quad countries – India, the United States, Japan and Australia – with the aim of enhancing interoperability and collective maritime security against a backdrop of increasing Chinese influence in the region.

Quad’s naval power is on display

The Malabar Exercise 2024, which commences from today to October 18, will showcase a formidable array of naval assets of the participating countries. While the US Navy will deploy the USS Dewey, an Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyer with its integral helicopter and P8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) will join the exercise with JS Ariake, a Murasame-class destroyer. Australia will deploy HMAS Stuart, an Anzac-class frigate with its MH-60R helicopter and P8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, increasing the Quad’s collective firepower and situational awareness.

Countering China’s growing influence

The timing of the Malabar exercise is particularly relevant given China’s increasing presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Over the past decade, China has expanded its maritime footprint by establishing bases and forging strategic partnerships with regional players, including Bangladesh’s development of a Chinese-supplied submarine base. This expansion is raising alarms among India and its allies, who are wary of China’s growing assertiveness, especially in the South China Sea and around crucial maritime routes.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLAN) has become the largest navy in the world, with more than 370 ships and a rapidly growing submarine fleet, expected to reach 65 by 2025. This significant increase poses a direct challenge to India’s maritime security and strategic interests in the world. IOR. In response, the Quad countries are strengthening their military cooperation through robust naval exercises such as Malabar, which serve as a platform to not only demonstrate their capabilities but also develop effective strategies to counter Chinese naval expansion to go.

Improving anti-submarine warfare capabilities

The focus of this year’s Malabar exercise on advanced anti-submarine warfare reflects the Quad’s collective response to the growing underwater threat posed by China. India’s integration of the P-8I Poseidon aircraft, one of the most advanced maritime patrol aircraft in the world, highlights the country’s commitment to enhance its surveillance and anti-submarine capabilities. Despite strong ties with the US, trust issues remain, particularly in relation to data-sharing arrangements for sonobuoy operations. Nevertheless, the ongoing discussions regarding the sale of advanced sonobuoys to India mark an important step toward improving operational interoperability.

Furthermore, the induction of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, designed for both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, will enable the Indian Naval Forces to expand their operational range. As India expands its naval capabilities, the Malabar exercise plays a crucial role in ensuring that all four Quad partners can work together seamlessly.

Trust and cooperation among Quad navies

The evolution of the Malabar exercise from a bilateral initiative between India and the US to a multilateral framework reflects the changing dynamics of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. The participation of Japan and Australia represents a commitment to collective security, but challenges remain. Historical suspicions, especially between India and the US, emphasize the need for continued dialogue and cooperation to build trust and operational synergy among the Quad countries.

As the exercise progresses, the focus will continue to be not only on refining tactical coordination, but also on promoting shared values ​​and strategies to address common threats in the region. This is especially relevant as China continues to employ “gray zone” tactics, seeking to assert its influence without provoking direct confrontation.

A united front against maritime threats

The Malabar 2024 exercise is not just a demonstration of military strength. It represents a strategic initiative aimed at counterbalancing China’s maritime ambitions in the Indo-Pacific. As the Quad countries demonstrate their commitment to a free and open maritime order, the successful conduct of this exercise will strengthen regional security and strengthen cooperative efforts against common threats. In light of rising geopolitical tensions, the importance of the Malabar exercise as a platform for strategic dialogue and military cooperation cannot be overstated.