India-Sri Lanka Hold Joint Military Exercise Mitra Shakti in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka

The 10th edition of India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise Mitra Shakti was held at Army Training School, Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka from August 12-25. Indian contingent comprising 106 personnel was represented by a battalion of Rajputana Rifles along with personnel from other arms and services. The Sri Lankan contingent was represented by personnel from Gajaba Regiment. Mitra Shakti is an annual training event conducted alternatively in India and Sri Lanka. Last edition was conducted in Pune in November 2023.

The aim of the exercise was to enhance joint military capability of both sides to undertake counter insurgency operations in a sub conventional scenario under Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate. The exercise focussed on operations in the semi-urban environment. Tactical drills to be rehearsed during the exercise included response to a terrorist action, establishment of a joint command post, establishment of an intelligence & surveillance centre, securing of a helipad/ landing site, small team insertion & extraction, special heliborne operations, cordon & search operations besides employment of drones and counter drone systems, among others.

Exercise Mitra Shakti enabled both sides to share best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures of conducting joint operations. It facilitated developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between the two armies. The exercise will also enhance defence cooperation, further augmenting bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.