The Unites States, Japan and India initiated the week-long war games on Friday, July 25. They are strengthening their naval ties as China appears more aggressive and beefs up its military.
The United States and India are usually involved in the annual event, known as the Malabar Exercise, but Japan will also take part this year. This will be Japan’s third appearance since 2007. The exercise will take place on the southern coast of Japan.
China has many countries on a tentative alert due to rising tension and disputes. Vietnamese officials discovered a Chinese-built oil rig in the Paracel Islands. The Chinese claimed that the $1 billion oil rig is planted within their jurisdiction. Rioting exploded in Ho Chi Minh City over the rig. Crowds burned down a Taiwanese-owned factory and attacked Chinese workers. More than 3,000 Chinese fled Vietnam and another 1,000 fled on ships sent out by the Chinese government.
The exercise will include three Indian ships, a frigate, a destroyer and a supply ship with between 700 and 800 personnel. The US 7th Fleet will participate, while Japan will implement two escort ships, one US-2 search-and-rescue amphibious plane and one P3C patrol plane.
Indian navy spokesman DK Sharma added, “We just concluded our navy drills with Russia, and since we have already traveled thousands of miles to that side, it’s only natural that Japan will participate in the Malabar Exercise.”
