India-Malaysia Harimau Shakti: Joint Military Exercise 2024

The India-Malaysia Harimau Shakti Joint Military Exercise 2024, held in Bentong Camp, Malaysia, aims to enhance joint military capabilities for counter-insurgency operations, implement United Nations Chapter VII Mandate, and develop inter-operability between armies.

Exercise Overview and Participation

4th edition of India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise Harimau Shakti 2024
Venue: Bentong Camp, Pahang District, Malaysia
Duration: 2nd to 15th December 2024
Indian Contingent: 78 personnel from Mahar Regiment
Malaysian Contingent: 123 personnel from Royal Malaysian Regiment
Annual training event alternating between India and Malaysia
Last edition held in Umroi Cantonment, Meghalaya in November 2023

Exercise Objectives and Methodology Primary Aims:

Enhance joint military capability for counter-insurgency operations
Undertake operations in jungle terrain
Implement United Nations Chapter VII Mandate
Develop inter-operability between armies

Exercise Structure:

Two-phase operational approach

Phase 1: Cross-training

- Lectures
- Demonstrations
- Jungle terrain drill practices

Phase 2: Simulated Exercise

- Anti-MT Ambush
- Harbour Occupation
- Reconnaissance Patrol
- Terrorist Area Attack Simulation

Bilateral Defence Cooperation Context Historical Diplomatic Relations:

Diplomatic relationship established in 1957
Upgraded to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024
Defence cooperation cornerstone: 1993 MoU on Defence Cooperation

Bilateral Military Exercises:

Harimau Shakti (Army)
Samudra Laksamana (Naval)
Udan Shakti (Air Force)

Key Exercise Significance:

Sharing best practices
Developing military camaraderie
Enhancing bilateral relations
Promoting global peace
Demonstrating multinational military collaboration

Theme for 2024: "Two nations, one mission: Ensuring global peace"

Exercise Outcomes:

Improved military interoperability
Enhanced tactical understanding
Strengthened diplomatic ties
Mutual skill development
Practical counter-insurgency training

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