Current Affairs - International - Discussion

The first-ever ‘At Sea Observer Mission’ was launched by the QUAD grouping, which includes India, Japan, the United States, and Australia. This initiative, conducted aboard the US Coast Guard Cutter Stratton, signifies a major step in strengthening maritime security, coordination, and interoperability among the four nations. The mission involved cross-embarkation of officers, including women, to observe and participate in shipboard operations. It supports the goals outlined in the Wilmington Declaration and the 2024 QUAD Leaders’ Summit, promoting a Free, Open, and Rules-Based Indo-Pacific. The mission also aligns with broader regional strategies like India’s SAGAR and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.