World’s Largest Maritime Drills Begin Amid Rising Tensions In Asia-Pacific

RIMPAC 2024 has commenced in Hawaii, drawing over 25,000 personnel from 29 countries. This year's exercise is set against a backdrop of rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Military forces from across the globe, including India, Japan, South Korea, and European states, are collaborating in this massive exercise to ensure a "free and open Indo-Pacific".

Israel joins RIMPAC for the third time, amidst ongoing protests over violence in Gaza. This participation highlights the exercise's geopolitical significance.

RIMPAC 2024 includes diverse training scenarios such as amphibious landings, urban combat, anti-submarine warfare, cyber, and space operations, engaging 150 aircraft, 40 ships, and three submarines.

The US strengthens its presence in Asia Pacific, countering increased Chinese military activity near Taiwan and the South China Sea, while Russia seeks regional alliances.

The exercise also features the largest-ever humanitarian aid component with mass casualty drills and urban search and rescue exercises, showcasing a dual focus on warfare and relief operations.

Environmentalists and indigenous groups criticize RIMPAC for potential ecological damage. The US Pacific Fleet pledges to conduct the exercises responsibly.