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| Enhancing Maritime Cooperation: Recap of IMT TRILAT 24 [Source: Indian Navy] |
The second edition of the India-Mozambique-Tanzania Trilateral Exercise, IMT TRILAT 24, concluded successfully at Nacala, Mozambique, on March 28, 2024. This week-long exercise, held from March 21 to 28, focused on bolstering maritime cooperation and interoperability among the navies of India, Mozambique, and Tanzania.
Participation and Objectives:
Indian Naval Ships Tir and Sujata actively participated in the exercise, engaging in a series of joint exercises, training sessions, and collaborative activities. The primary aim was to exchange knowledge, enhance capabilities, and fortify maritime security in the region.
Exercise Phases:
IMT TRILAT 24 was structured into two phases:
- Harbour Phase (March 21-24, 2024): During this phase, intensive training sessions were conducted concurrently onboard INS Tir at Zanzibar and INS Sujata at Maputo. Training activities encompassed Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS), Damage Control and Firefighting Drills, communication procedures, and medical lectures featuring CPR demonstration and casualty evacuation (CASEVAC).
- Sea Phase (March 24-28, 2024): The sea phase witnessed INS Tir and INS Sujata hosting sea riders from the Tanzanian and Mozambique Navies, respectively. Joint operations were conducted with Mozambique Naval ship Namatili and Tanzanian naval ship Fatundu, showcasing synergy and sustained efforts in line with the vision of SAGAR (Security & Growth for All in the Region). Evolutions at sea included simulated VBSS exercises, night maneuvers, and joint surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) off Tanzania and Mozambique.
Closing Ceremony and Highlights:
The closing ceremony, held onboard INS Tir and INS Sujata at Nacala, Mozambique, was attended by representatives from all three navies. Emphasis was placed on the successful collaboration, enhanced understanding of maritime capabilities, and achievement of shared objectives during the exercise. The event underscored continued collaboration towards maritime security and regional stability, reaffirming India’s commitment as the preferred security partner.
Additional Engagements:
In addition to IMT TRILAT 24, various official and training exchanges, cross-deck visits, sport fixtures, and Yoga sessions were organized as part of the long-range training deployment of the ships. The ships were open to visitors at Zanzibar, Maputo, and Nacala, attracting a diverse audience, including school children, the Indian diaspora, and the local populace. Outreach activities were also conducted at Mizzizini orphanage center in Zanzibar and Obra Dom Orio Reception Centre in Maputo, fostering bonds of friendship.
Insights into Mozambique and Tanzania:
Mozambique, a Southeast African nation, gained independence from Portugal in 1975. Its capital, Maputo, and the official language, Portuguese, reflect its colonial past. Mozambique boasts diverse wildlife and faced a devastating civil war from 1977 to 1992. The economy relies on agriculture, aluminium and petroleum production, and tourism, with the Zambezi River flowing through the country and the Cahora Bassa Dam standing as one of Africa's largest.
Tanzania, situated in East Africa, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. Independence from British colonial rule was achieved in 1961, with Dodoma serving as the capital and Dar es Salaam as a major commercial hub. Swahili and English are the official languages. The economy thrives on agriculture, tourism, and mining, with the indigenous Maasai community contributing to the rich cultural tapestry.
By fostering collaboration and sharing expertise, IMT TRILAT 24 marked a significant step towards strengthening maritime security and promoting regional prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.