Source: HINDU

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Context

The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) under Operation ATALANTA has proposed a joint naval exercise with the Indian Navy.

Details

The proposed exercise aims to enhance coordination and maritime cooperation in the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea amidst resurgent piracy and geopolitical instability.

It will go beyond routine PASSEX (Passage Exercises) to include

Advanced tactical manoeuvres

Counter-piracy operations

Inter-naval communication training

Operation ATALANTA

Expanded Mandate

Operation ATALANTA’s responsibilities have grown significantly over time:

Protection of vessels of the World Food Programme (WFP) and other vulnerable shipping.

Contributing to the enforcement of the arms embargo on Somalia as mandated by the UN.

Monitoring of

Narcotics trafficking

Arms trafficking

Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing

Illegal charcoal trade which is important for Somali insurgents’ funding.

Objectives

Deter, prevent and repress acts of piracy and armed robbery at sea.

Safeguard maritime security to ensure free and safe passage for international shipping.

Strengthen maritime situational awareness and intelligence sharing.

Build partnerships with regional and international navies.

Importance of Indo-EU Cooperation

Both forces operate in the Indian Ocean — ensuring better security architecture.

Information Sharing through platforms like the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region.

Countering Geopolitical Challenges including piracy resurgence, Houthi rebel actions and Chinese naval presence.

Upholding Rules-Based Maritime Order ensuring the Indian Ocean remains free, open, sustainable and inclusive.

Challenges

Vastness of the Indian Ocean requires significant assets and logistical capability.

Persistent Asymmetric Threats such as Piracy, smuggling, arms, and drug trafficking.

Growing external naval presences including China complicate coordination.

Sources:

HINDU