Quadrilateral Malabar Naval Drills Underway

The quadrilateral Malabar naval drills have kicked off in Japan, reports the Asian News International (New Delhi).

On Wednesday, the opening ceremony for the exercise involving Australia, India, Japan and the U.S. took place on the Japanese helicopter carrier Hyuga in Yokosuka.

This is the first time that the four countries, members of the informal Quad group, have taken part in a joint exercise of this size, reported Reuters.

The training is focused on improving interoperability and tactical capabilities, reported the Financial Express (Noida, India).

It will include anti-submarine warfare and air defense exercises, including live-fire drills, according to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

India sent the frigate Shivalik, corvette Kamorta, a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft and marine commandos to the drills.

Japan sent five warships and a surveillance aircraft, while the U.S. contingent includes the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, two other warships, a P-8 patrol aircraft and special operations forces.

Australia is taking part with two warships, a P-8 patrol aircraft and special operations forces.