India, Mozambique, and Tanzania Strengthen Maritime Ties Through Joint Naval Exercise

Photo Credit: Indian Navy, Government of India

The second edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania Trilateral Exercise (IMT TRILAT 24) concluded on March 28, 2024, in Nacala, Mozambique, marking a significant milestone in maritime cooperation among the participating nations. Over the course of a week, from March 21 to March 28, naval vessels from the three countries, including INS Tir and Sujata from India, engaged in a series of comprehensive exercises aimed at enhancing maritime security and interoperability in the region.

IMT TRILAT 24 was structured into two main phases: the harbor phase and the sea phase. The harbor phase involved intensive training sessions onboard the Indian vessels at Zanzibar and Maputo, focusing on critical maritime skills such as Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS), damage control, firefighting, and medical emergency response. The sea phase, initiated on March 24, featured collaborative operations with Mozambique's Namatili and Tanzania's Fatundu, emphasizing joint surveillance, VBSS exercises, and night maneuvers.

The exercise showcased the commitment of India, Mozambique, and Tanzania to fostering regional stability and security, aligning with India's vision of SAGAR (Security & Growth for All in the Region). The closing ceremony celebrated the successful collaboration and shared learning experiences, highlighting the importance of continued partnership in maritime endeavors.

Beyond the formal exercises, IMT TRILAT 24 included cultural and community engagement activities, such as visits to local orphanages and public tours of the ships, demonstrating the participating navies' dedication to strengthening not only military ties but also bonds of friendship among the nations involved. Over 1500 people, including school children, members of the Indian diaspora, and locals, participated in these events, further underscoring the multifaceted benefits of the trilateral exercise.