Participation in these exercises enhances the operational readiness and interoperability of the Indian Navy
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Shivalik, a formidable stealth frigate, departed from Singapore on May 30, 2024, marking a significant milestone in its deployment across the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The vessel is en route to Yokosuka, Japan, where it will participate in two critical naval exercises: the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) 24 and the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 24.
 
Strategic Objectives and Regional Engagements
 
The mission underscores India's commitment to enhancing interoperability with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), the US Navy, and other participating navies in RIMPAC 24. This deployment is a testament to the Indian Navy's strategic outreach and its role in promoting security and growth in the region under the ambit of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
 
During its Operational Turnaround (OTR) at Singapore, INS Shivalik engaged in a series of diplomatic and ceremonial activities. The ship's crew participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kranji War Memorial, paying homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II. High-level engagements included a call on the Base Commander at Changi Naval Base and a meeting with the High Commissioner of India to Singapore.
 
A notable aspect of the visit was the outreach to the community and fostering of international relations. Around 80 schoolchildren were given a tour of the ship, providing them with a glimpse into the life of naval personnel and the operations of a modern warship. Additionally, cross-deck visits to the USS Mobile (LCS) highlighted the strong maritime relations and shared values between the navies of India, the United States, and other allied nations.
 
JIMEX 24: Strengthening Indo-Japanese Naval Cooperation
 
JIMEX 24, the bilateral maritime exercise between India and Japan, is a cornerstone of naval cooperation between the two nations. Scheduled to commence shortly after INS Shivalik's arrival in Japan, the exercise aims to enhance tactical coordination and foster mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the JMSDF. Activities will include complex maritime operations such as anti-submarine warfare, anti-aircraft drills, and surface engagements.
 
This exercise is particularly significant in the context of the evolving security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. It serves as a platform for both navies to share best practices, enhance their operational capabilities, and work towards maintaining a rules-based international order.
 
RIMPAC 24: The World's Largest International Maritime Exercise
 
Following JIMEX 24, INS Shivalik will participate in RIMPAC 24, the largest international maritime exercise in the world. Scheduled from June 26 to August 2, 2024, in and around the Hawaiian Islands, RIMPAC will see the participation of 29 nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, over 150 aircraft, and more than 25,000 personnel.
 
RIMPAC or Rim of the Pacific, is a biennial exercise designed to foster and sustain cooperative relationships among participating nations. This year's theme, "Partners: Integrated and Prepared," emphasizes the importance of multinational collaboration to ensure the safety of sea lanes and security in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
 
The exercise offers a unique training platform where participating forces can operate together in a dynamic maritime environment. The scope of activities includes live-fire exercises, anti-submarine warfare, maritime interdiction operations, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
 
RIMPAC 24 will be led by the Commander of the US 3rd Fleet, serving as the Combined Task Force (CTF) commander, with key leadership roles filled by international counterparts. Notably, Commodore Alberto Guerrero of the Chilean Navy will serve as the deputy commander, a first in RIMPAC history, and Rear Admiral Kazushi Yokota of the JMSDF will be the vice commander. These leadership roles highlight the inclusive nature of RIMPAC and the emphasis on building a cohesive and integrated multinational force.
 
The departure of INS Shivalik from Singapore and its subsequent participation in JIMEX 24 and RIMPAC 24 represent significant steps in India's maritime diplomacy and its commitment to regional security. These exercises not only enhance the operational readiness and interoperability of the Indian Navy but also reinforce the collaborative efforts needed to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
 
The deployment of INS Shivalik, with its advanced stealth features and state-of-the-art weaponry, underscores the strategic importance of the Indian Navy's presence in these multinational exercises. It also reflects India's broader strategic vision of engaging with key maritime partners to ensure a secure and prosperous future for all nations in the region.