PUNE: In a significant display of collaborative military prowess, the ninth edition of the annual India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise, named "Mitra Shakti 2023," has commenced in Aundh (Pune), as confirmed by officials from the Defence Ministry.
The exercise aims to enhance tactical expertise, encompassing a range of strategic maneuvers including raids, search and destroy missions, heliborne operations, and more. Additionally, the training curriculum will encompass Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), combat reflex shooting, and yoga, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the drills, a ministry official disclosed.
According to the Ministry of Defence, 'Exercise Mitra Shakti 2023' will incorporate the utilization of drones and counter unmanned aerial systems, alongside helicopter operations. The exercises will simulate securing helipads and conducting casualty evacuation procedures within the context of counter-terror operations, enabling joint rehearsals by both Indian and Sri Lankan forces.
The primary emphasis of these collective efforts is to elevate interoperability among troops, minimize risks to life and property, and uphold the UN's interests and objectives, particularly in peacekeeping operations.
Scheduled from November 16 to 29, 2023, the Indian contingent comprising 120 personnel primarily consists of troops from the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment. Representing the Sri Lankan side are personnel from the 53 Infantry division, complemented by 15 individuals from the Indian Air Force and five from the Sri Lankan Air Force, participating in this collaborative exercise, according to the MoD official.
The MoD stated that the exercise's core objective is to conduct sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, facilitating joint responses in counter-terror scenarios. The exercises encompass sharing insights and practices across a broad spectrum of combat skills, fostering mutual learning between the participants and ultimately enhancing defence cooperation between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army.
This joint military endeavor not only underscores the robustness of defense collaboration but also serves as a catalyst for fostering stronger bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka, amplifying ties between the two neighboring nations, the official concluded.
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