The Indian Navy is set to embark on a strategic maritime exercise named AIKEYME, aimed at enhancing defense cooperation with several African nations. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision, which seeks to promote security and growth across regions. Scheduled to take place off the coast of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, AIKEYME is a joint endeavor between the Indian Navy and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force, marking a significant step in bolstering regional maritime security.
Decoding AIKEYME: A Key Maritime Engagement
AIKEYME stands for Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement, a collaborative effort designed to strengthen maritime security and enhance interoperability among participating nations. The exercise will witness the participation of ten African countries: Tanzania, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa.
Objectives: Aiming for Safer Waters
The primary goal of AIKEYME is to tackle pressing maritime security threats, including piracy, illegal fishing, and other transnational challenges. By fostering collaboration through information sharing and surveillance, the exercise aims to bolster the operational readiness of African navies. Moreover, capacity building and knowledge exchange will be key focal points, ensuring that regional naval forces are well-equipped to address security concerns effectively.
Structure of the Exercise: A Two-Phase Approach
AIKEYME will span six days and unfold in two distinct phases: the harbour phase and the sea phase.
- Harbour Phase: This phase will include tabletop exercises focusing on piracy countermeasures and information-sharing strategies. Additionally, participating personnel will undergo training in seamanship and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations, crucial for enhancing operational coordination.
- Sea Phase: This segment will put theoretical knowledge into action with practical drills, including seamanship evolutions, search and rescue operations, small-arms firing, and helicopter operations, all of which are essential for maritime security enforcement.
Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar Initiative: Expanding Cooperation
Complementing AIKEYME, the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative has been launched by the Indian Navy. As part of this program, INS Sunayna will be deployed to the southwest Indian Ocean with a combined crew from India and nine African nations. This initiative aims to enhance joint operational capabilities, fostering greater regional cooperation.
Training & Capacity Building: Preparing for the Future
A crucial element of AIKEYME is the training component, wherein personnel from the nine African nations will undergo an intensive two-week training capsule at various naval professional schools in Kochi, India. This training will prepare them for effective collaboration aboard INS Sunayna, ensuring seamless execution of joint operations.
Strategic Importance: India’s Role as a Security Partner
AIKEYME and IOS Sagar underscore India’s commitment to emerging as a preferred security partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). These initiatives not only reinforce India’s role in regional security but also serve as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence in Africa. Moreover, by addressing pressing security threats such as piracy and emerging challenges posed by groups like the Houthi rebels, India is positioning itself as a reliable maritime ally for African nations.
Conclusion: Sailing Towards a Secure Future
Through AIKEYME and the IOS Sagar initiative, India is actively strengthening its maritime partnerships with Africa. By fostering defense collaboration, enhancing operational readiness, and ensuring safer waters, these exercises pave the way for a more secure and prosperous Indian Ocean Region. With this strategic outreach, India not only cements its presence as a maritime power but also reinforces its role as a dependable partner in global security initiatives.