10th Edition of India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI Commences in Sri Lanka

Maduru Oya: The 10th edition of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI began today at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. The exercise, which will run from 12th to 25th August 2024, aims to bolster the joint military capabilities of both nations in counter-insurgency operations within a semi-urban environment.

The Indian contingent, consisting of 106 personnel, is represented by a battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, alongside personnel from other arms and services. The Sri Lankan side is represented by members of the Gajaba Regiment of the Sri Lankan Army. MITRA SHAKTI is an annual training event held alternately in India and Sri Lanka, with the last edition conducted in Pune in November 2023.

The primary objective of the joint exercise is to enhance the ability of both armies to undertake counter-insurgency operations in a sub-conventional scenario under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate. This year’s exercise will focus on tactical operations in a semi-urban setting.

Key tactical drills to be rehearsed include response to a terrorist action, establishment of a joint command post, creation of an intelligence and surveillance centre, securing a helipad or landing site, small team insertion and extraction, special heliborne operations, cordon and search operations, and the use of drones and counter-drone systems.

Exercise MITRA SHAKTI will allow both armies to share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting joint operations. It will also facilitate the development of interoperability, camaraderie, and mutual understanding between the two forces, while enhancing defence cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka.