Context:
Indian multi-role stealth frigate INS Shivalik, mission deployed in South China Sea and North Pacific Ocean, has reached Pearl Harbour in Hawaii to take part in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
About Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise:
- Overview:
- The world’s largest international maritime exercise, conducted in Hawaii.
- Aims to enhance interoperability and build trust among the navies of friendly nations.
- Theme and Duration:
- Held under the theme “Partners: Integrated and Prepared”, running until August 1.
- Led by the US Navy with participation from approximately 29 countries.
- Exercise Phases:
- Harbour Phase (June 27 to July 7, 2024):
- Involves multiple symposiums, exercise planning discussions, sports competitions, and reciprocal deck visits.
- Sea Phase:
- Divided into three sub-phases, featuring ships undertaking basic and advanced integration exercises.
- Harbour Phase (June 27 to July 7, 2024):
- Key Participants and Activities:
- Aircraft Carrier Battle Group, submarines, maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
- Unmanned aerial vehicles, remotely piloted surface ships.
- Amphibious force landing operations, including joint operations with special forces of multinational navies.
- Purpose and Benefits:
- Provides a unique training opportunity.
- Fosters and sustains cooperative relationships among participants.
- Ensures the safety of sea lanes and security of the world’s oceans.
