Consider the following statements regarding the Africa India Key Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME) conducted in mid-April 2025.

1. AIKEYME is a multilateral exercise co-hosted by the Indian Navy and Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force (TPDF).

2. The exercise was planned in Maputo, Mozambique, and tackled maritime security threats like piracy.

3. The exercise happened in two phases: the Harbour Phase included training on Seamanship and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS), while the Sea Phase included Small Arms firing, Helicopter Operations and Search and Rescue.

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (A) Only 1 and 3

Explanation:

• Statement 1: Correct. The Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME) was a multilateral naval exercise co-hosted by the Indian Navy and the Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force (TPDF). The exercise aimed to enhance maritime security cooperation among Indian Ocean littoral states.

• Statement 2: Incorrect. The exercise was held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, not in Maputo, Mozambique. The Harbour Phase took place from April 13 to 15, 2025.

• Statement 3: Correct. The exercise was conducted in two phases:

  • Harbour Phase (April 13–15): Included joint training sessions focusing on anti-piracy operations, information sharing, seamanship, and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) exercises.

  • Sea Phase (April 16–18): Involved live drills emphasizing coordinated maritime patrols, rescue operations, tactical maneuvering, and enhancing interoperability among the navies.

Information Booster:

• Participating Nations: In addition to India and Tanzania, the exercise included Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa.

• Indian Naval Ships Involved: The Indian Navy deployed INS Chennai (destroyer), INS Kesari (Landing Ship Tank), and INS Sunayna (patrol vessel), which was part of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar initiative.

• Objectives: The exercise aimed to develop collaborative solutions to common regional maritime challenges, enhance interoperability, and strengthen partnerships among participating nations.