India-Sri Lanka 10th Edition of Exercise Mitra Shakti

Exercise Overview and Objectives

• 'Mitra Shakti' is an annual bilateral combat exercise between India and Sri Lanka
• The 10th edition of Mitra Shakti commenced on August 12, 2024, at the Sri Lankan Army Training School in Maduru Oya
• Set to conclude on August 25, 2024
• Primary aim: Enhance interoperability and hone skills in counter-insurgency operations
• Focus on operations in semi-urban environments under the UN mandate (Chapter VII)
• Designed to improve joint military capabilities for sub-conventional scenarios
• Promotes sharing of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures
• Facilitates the development of interoperability, bonhomie, and camaraderie between the two armies
• Aims to enhance bilateral defense relations and cooperation between India and Sri Lanka

Participation and Representation

Indian contingent:

• • 106 personnel participating
  • Represented by a Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles
  • Includes personnel from other arms and services

Sri Lankan contingent:

• • Represented by the Gajaba Regiment of the Sri Lankan Army
• The exercise alternates between India and Sri Lanka annually
• Previous edition (9th) was held in Pune, India, in November 2023

Training Drills and Tactical Focus

• Response to terrorist actions
• Establishment of joint command posts
• Creation of intelligence and surveillance centers
• Securing helipads and landing sites
• Small team insertions and extractions
• Special heliborne operations
• Cordon and search operations
• Employment of drones and counter-drone systems
• Operations tailored for semi-urban environments
• Focus on counter-insurgency tactics in sub-conventional scenarios

Strategic Importance and Expected Outcomes

• Enhances joint military capability for UN peacekeeping operations
• Improves coordination and understanding between Indian and Sri Lankan forces
• Facilitates exchange of expertise in counter-insurgency and anti-terrorism operations
• Strengthens defense cooperation between the two neighboring countries
• Contributes to regional stability and security in South Asia
• Promotes mutual learning and adaptation of effective military strategies
• Builds trust and fosters stronger diplomatic ties beyond military cooperation
• Prepares both forces for potential joint operations in future conflict scenarios
• Enhances the ability to respond to regional security challenges collaboratively
• Serves as a platform for showcasing military professionalism and fostering healthy competition