News Excerpt: 

The second edition of India-Mozambique-Tanzania Trilateral Exercise concluded at Nacala, Mozambique on 28 Mar 24.

Key Points:

• The IMT TRILAT 24 Exercise unfolded in two phases.
  • The Harbour phase was scheduled from 21 to 24 Mar 24.

• • • Naval ships Tir and Sujata will engage with the respective Navies at the ports of Zanzibar (Tanzania) and Maputo (Mozambique). 
    • This phase would begin with a Planning Conference followed by conduct of joint harbour training activities like Damage Control, Fire Fighting, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, Medical Lectures, Casualty Evacuation and Diving operations.
  • Sea phase was scheduled from 24-27 Mar 24 
    • The sea phase of the exercise is scheduled from 24-27 Mar 24 covering practical aspects of countering asymmetric threats, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, boat handling, maneuvers and firing exercise.
    • A joint EEZ surveillance is also planned during the sea phase. 
    • The exercise will conclude with a joint debrief scheduled at Nacala (Mozambique).
• The closing ceremony, held onboard INS Tir and INS Sujata at Nacala, Mozambique featured representatives from all three navies. 
  • The closing remarks highlighted successful collaboration, understanding of maritime capabilities and shared objectives achieved during the exercise. 
  • It emphasised continued collaboration towards maritime security and regional stability underlining India's commitment as the preferred security partner.

About the IMT TRILAT Exercise: 

• It is a joint maritime exercise scheduled from 21-29 Mar 24
• The first edition of IMT TRILAT exercise conducted in Oct 2022, saw the participation of INS Tarkash with the Tanzania and Mozambique Navies.
• Aim: 
• Enhanced maritime cooperation and interoperability among the navies of India, Mozambique, and Tanzania.

Significance:

• Enhances maritime cooperation and interoperability among India, Mozambique, and Tanzania.
• Strengthens regional maritime security efforts.
• Demonstrates commitment to diplomatic relations and regional stability.
• Provides opportunities for capacity building and knowledge exchange.