India Mozambique Tanzania (IMT) maritime trilateral exercise

India Mozambique Tanzania (IMT) maritime trilateral exercise

News: INS Sujata and INS Tir have entered the harbour phase of the India Mozambique Tanzania (IMT) maritime trilateral exercise.
About:
 The India Mozambique Tanzania (IMT) maritime trilateral exercise is a joint naval exercise involving the navies of India, Mozambique, and Tanzania.
 Objective: The IMT exercise aims to enhance maritime cooperation, interoperability, and coordination among the participating countries. It fosters greater regional security and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
Exercise phases
 Harbour Phase (21-24 Mar 2024): Activities include a Planning Conference followed by joint harbour training sessions: Damage Control, Fire Fighting, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) procedures, Medical Lectures, Casualty Evacuation, Diving operations. Indian Naval ships will engage with the respective navies at the ports of Zanzibar (Tanzania) and Maputo (Mozambique).
 Sea Phase (24-27 Mar 2024): Focuses on practical exercises: Countering asymmetric threats, VBSS procedures, Boat handling, Manoeuvres, Firing exercises. 
 A joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance operation is also planned during this phase. The exercise concludes with a joint debrief scheduled at Nacala(Mozambique).

Strategic significance:
 Regional Cooperation: IMT reinforces India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and cooperation with its maritime neighbors.
 SAGAR Initiative: It aligns with India’s vision of Safety and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
 Diplomatic Relations: The exercise strengthens diplomatic ties and builds trust among the participating nations.
 Capacity Building: By sharing expertise and conducting joint exercises, IMT contributes to capacity-building efforts in the region.