Exercise Malabar 2026: India, Australia, Japan and US Begin Multilateral Naval Exercise in Japan

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

The exercise brings together the navies of India, Australia, Japan and the United States, aiming to strengthen maritime cooperation, operational coordination and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region.

INS Sahyadri, part of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet, received a ceremonial welcome from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

The participation of the Indian Navy reflects India’s commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships under its MAHASAGAR vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

Key Highlights of Exercise Malabar 2026

INS Sahyadri Arrives at Yokosuka Naval Base

INS Sahyadri arrived at Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan on 4 November 2026 as part of India’s participation in Exercise Malabar 2026.

The ship was welcomed by officials of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, highlighting the strong maritime relationship between India and Japan.

The welcome ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral Yagi Koji, Commandant of Yokosuka District, and R. Madhu Sudan, Deputy Chief of the Indian Mission.

The arrival of INS Sahyadri marked an important step in the Indian Navy’s participation in the multilateral exercise.

What Is Exercise Malabar?

Exercise Malabar is a major multilateral naval exercise involving the navies of India, the United States, Japan and Australia.

The exercise was originally launched in 1992 as a bilateral naval exercise between India and the United States.

Japan became a permanent participant in 2015, while Australia rejoined the exercise in 2020, establishing the present four-nation format.

The exercise focuses on improving coordination, communication, interoperability and maritime operational capabilities among the participating navies.

Participating Countries in Malabar 2026

All four participating countries are also members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the Quad.

However, Exercise Malabar is a naval exercise rather than a formal military exercise conducted under a Quad military command structure.

Two Phases of Exercise Malabar 2026

1. Harbour Phase

The harbour phase focuses on professional exchanges, operational discussions and coordinated planning among participating naval forces.

Major activities include:

• Professional interactions between naval personnel.

• Operational planning and coordination meetings.

• Exchange of maritime expertise and best practices.

• Discussions on naval procedures and communication.

• Strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation.

2. Sea Phase

The sea phase involves INS Sahyadri and naval units from Japan, Australia and the United States conducting coordinated maritime activities.

The phase aims to improve practical coordination, interoperability and operational familiarity among the participating navies.

About INS Sahyadri

INS Sahyadri is an indigenously built guided-missile stealth frigate of the Indian Navy.

It belongs to the Shivalik-class frigates, also known as Project 17.

The ship was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2012 and is part of the Eastern Fleet.

INS Sahyadri is designed for multiple naval roles, including surface warfare, anti-submarine operations and maritime security missions.