India and US Successfully Conclude 20-Day Anti-Submarine Exercise in Guam

Washington, April 4: India and the United States, along with their allied nations, have successfully completed a 20-day anti-submarine warfare exercise. This event, named “Exercise Sea Dragon 2026,” took place in Guam and concluded on March 28 at Andersen Air Force Base.

Participating countries included the US, India, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. The primary goal of the exercise was to enhance the ability to identify and neutralize underwater threats.

The exercise was hosted by Commander Task Force 72 and featured advanced US Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft, alongside naval forces from India, Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force, the Royal Australian Air Force, and the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Together, these nations assessed their joint operational capabilities in a complex maritime environment.

According to officials, the exercise aimed to improve coordination among the countries and strengthen shared maritime surveillance activities. During the exercise, tracking drills were conducted using a mobile anti-submarine training target known as “MK-30.” A live exercise was also performed to locate and engage an active naval submarine.

This year, the exercise also took place around Saipan, where participating nations utilized recoverable exercise torpedoes, further enhancing their operational capabilities.

A competitive aspect was included in the exercise, where each country’s performance was evaluated based on real-world conditions. Japan’s Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron 3 won the “Dragon Belt” award, which was previously held by Australia.

US officials stated that such exercises play a crucial role in maintaining regional stability. They enhance both the strength and readiness of partner nations, aiding in the prevention of potential threats in the Indo-Pacific region.

Having been held annually since 2019, this exercise has become a robust platform for military cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. India’s participation reflects its growing strategic role and proactive policy regarding maritime security in the region.