The fifth Indo-US joint exercise, Malabar, was held off Kochi. Two frontline warships USS Chosin and USS Fitzgerald, a nuclear submarine USS Pasadena, two P3C-Orion maritime patrol aircraft and a tanker took part from the US Navy. The Indian Navy was represented by two guided missile frigates, INS Brahmaputra and INS Ganga, one submarine INS Shalki along with tanker INS Shakti and a variety of integral and shore-based aircraft. The first Indo-US joint exercise was held in 1992. The exercise is named Malabar since it is held off the Malabar Coast every time.

With the threat of terrorism looming large, both on land as well as at sea, the exercise focussed on 'VBSS' i.e. visit, board, search and seizure operations in which personnel from warships boarded and searched a suspected vessel at sea. The anti- submarine warfare was given an added thrust this year, with the participation of Indian Naval submarine Shalki and nuclear submarine USS Pasadena.

These joint exercises are of great significance as they enhance inter- operability and help in understanding each other's operating philosophy. Another significant feature of the exercise has been the institution of Malabar Cup this year. Teams from the two navies after matching their skills at sea keenly contested for the cup in football, volleyball and golf. The Indian Navy bagged the trophy winning volleyball and golf matches while the US Navy won the football match.