India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime (IBSAMAR)

In News

• Recently, the 7th edition of India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime (IBSAMAR)  was held at Port Gqeberha (also known as Port Elizabeth) in South Africa. 

IBSAMAR

• About:
  • It is a joint Multinational Maritime Exercise between the Indian, Brazilian and South African Navies currently being held in South Africa. 
  • The first trilateral naval drill of IBSA was initiated in 2006.
  • The Sixth edition of IBSAMAR was conducted off Simons Town, South Africa in 2018.
• Objective:
  • The objectives of the exercise included strengthening maritime relations, promoting joint operational military training, combating maritime crimes, securing Sea Lines of Communication and enhancing interoperability to pursue common evolutions at sea.
• Indian representation
  • The Indian Navy was represented in it by the guided missile frigate, INS Tarkash, a Chetak helicopter and MARCOS Special Forces. 

Importance of the drill

• China Factor: In view of China’s growing presence across the global waters, naval cooperation and maritime security have been identified by the IBSA as important sectors to further deepen the cooperation.
• Strategic relationship: Such multinational drills exemplify the long term strategic relationship between three vibrant democracies, and strong economies.

Source: PIB