India and United Kingdom Commence Four-Day Maritime Exercise Konkan in the Western Indian Ocean
The Indian Navy and the UK’s Royal Navy have started Exercise Konkan-25 in the Western Indian Ocean. This edition is significant as it involves the UK’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by HMS Prince of Wales, and India’s INS Vikrant. The four-day drill aims to enhance maritime and air interoperability through complex multi-domain operations, including anti-submarine warfare and air defense drills. The exercise is part of the UK’s 'Operation Highmast' global deployment and aligns with the 'UK-India Vision 2030' to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific, reinforcing shared security commitments in the region.
Key Points
- Exercise Konkan is a bilateral maritime drill between India and the UK that started in 2004.
- This edition marks the first-ever involvement of Carrier Strike Groups from both nations.
- The exercise focuses on strengthening the 'living bridge' of people and culture while reinforcing shared security commitments in the Indo-Pacific.
- Following the sea phase, British warships will make port calls in Mumbai and Goa to deepen defense and industrial ties.
- The UK CSG will also conduct an aerial defense exercise with the Indian Air Force to test tactics and interoperability.
Exam Facts
- The UK's Carrier Strike Group is led by the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.
- India's participant is the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
- Operation Highmast is the name of the UK's eight-month global deployment.
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