Exercise MALABAR 2026

Why in News?

The Indian Navy’s indigenous stealth frigate INS Sahyadri arrived at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, on 4 November 2026 to participate in the multilateral naval exercise MALABAR 2026.

Key Features

• Participating countries: India, Japan, the United States and Australia.
• Objective: To strengthen operational coordination, interoperability and cooperation among the participating navies.
• Exercise components: The programme includes both harbour-based and at-sea engagements.
• Activities: It provides opportunities for professional exchange and joint maritime operations.
• Significance: It enhances the ability of participating navies to operate together and respond to shared maritime challenges.

About INS Sahyadri

• INS Sahyadri is an indigenous stealth frigate of the Indian Navy.
• It belongs to the Shivalik-class (Project 17) guided-missile stealth frigates.
• It was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
• It strengthens India’s indigenous warship-building capability.

Source: The Hindu