EXERCISE MITRA SHAKTI
What happened?
- The 11th edition of Exercise MITRA SHAKTI between India and Sri Lanka began on 10 November 2025.
- It is being held at the Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, Karnataka.
- The exercise will continue till 23 November 2025.
WHO IS PARTICIPATING?
India
- 170 Army personnel, mainly from the RAJPUT Regiment
- 20 Indian Air Force personnel
Sri Lanka
- 135 Army personnel, mainly from the GAJABA Regiment
- 10 Sri Lankan Air Force personnel
AIM OF THE EXERCISE
- To train together for Sub-Conventional Operations under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate. (Sub-conventional operations = actions below the level of full-scale war, such as counter-terrorism.)
- To improve joint response to counter-terrorist situations.
WHAT WILL BOTH ARMIES PRACTICE?
Operational Drills
- Raids
- Search and destroy missions
- Heliborne operations (soldiers inserted/extracted by helicopter)
- Use of drones and counter-drone systems
- Securing helipads
- Casualty evacuation during operations
Skill & Fitness Activities
- Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR)
- Combat reflex shooting
- Yoga
WHY IS THIS EXERCISE IMPORTANT?
1. Enhancing Interoperability
- Helps soldiers of both countries learn how to operate smoothly and effectively together.
- Reduces risks to life and property during peacekeeping and counter-terror operations.
2. Supporting UN Peacekeeping
- Since both nations contribute to UN peace missions, the exercise focuses on working together under UN guidelines.
3. Defence Cooperation
- Both sides exchange:
- Best practices
- Techniques
- Tactical knowledge
- Strengthens military ties between India and Sri Lanka.
4. Strengthening Bilateral Relations
- Regular joint exercises build trust and friendship between neighbouring nations.
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