more-inAustralia is keen on joining the Malabar trilateral naval exercises among India, Japan and the U.S., and has requested observer status at the upcoming edition, scheduled for July. “Australia has requested that its military officers be allowed as observers during this year’s Malabar exercises,” a senior official told The Hindu. While India is yet to take a call on Australia’s request, a senior defence official indicated that it is unlikely to be accepted. China frownsJapan and the U.S. are keen on expanding the games to include Australia with officials from both countries specifically stating so on various occasions. “Usually the IPC happens in New Delhi but this time it is happening in Tokyo,” another official said.

Source: The Hindu April 15, 2017 16:12 UTC