iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
Indian Navy’s indigenously built stealth frigate, INS Shivalik, has arrived at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, to participate in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, the world’s largest international maritime event.
According to the US Navy, approximately 29 nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, over 150 aircraft, and more than 25,000 personnel will train and operate in and around the Hawaiian Islands during the exercise — being held under the theme of ‘Partners: Integrated and Prepared’ – which runs until August 1.
The Indian Navy labeled this participation as a chance to strengthen ties with the United States. The first phase, lasting until July 7, will involve professional interactions, visits between participating ships, workshops, and team-building activities.
The exercise, hosted by the Commander of the US Pacific Fleet, will witness the participating forces integrate and exercise a wide range of capabilities, from disaster relief to maritime security operations, and from sea control to complex warfighting.
“The Rim of the Pacific exercise has grown over the years to be the world’s largest and premier joint combined maritime training opportunity. The exercise’s purpose is to build relationships, to enhance interoperability and proficiency and, ultimately, contribute to the peace and stability in the vitally important Indo-Pacific region,” said Vice Admiral John Wade, Commander, US 3rd Fleet, and RIMPAC 2024 Combined Task Force (CTF) commander.Various amphibious operations, gunnery, missile, anti-submarine, and air defense exercises, as well as military medicine, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, counter-piracy, mine clearance operations, explosive ordnance disposal, and diving and salvage operations will also be conducted during the exercise.
India joins a diverse group of participants, including Australia, Canada, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. This participation comes on the heels of INS Shivalik’s successful involvement in JIMEX 24, a bilateral exercise with Japan.
By deploying INS Shivalik to RIMPAC, the Indian Navy aims to significantly enhance its interoperability with partner nations and contribute to a more secure and stable Indo-Pacific region.
