New Delhi. 25 August, 2024. India and Sri Lanka have successfully concluded the 10th edition of their joint military exercise, ‘Mitra Shakti,’ reflecting the growing defence cooperation and mutual trust.
The exercise, commenced on 12 Aug 2024, and the training was conducted in a manner that makes the two forces capable of undertaking combined operations when called upon. It has helped both armies to understand each other’s doctrines, tactics & procedures to evolve drills while operating in Counter Terrorism, Regional Security & Peace Keeping Operations. This is achieved through enhancing interoperability, improving military-to-military cooperation, and enabling both forces to operate cohesively.
This year’s edition of ‘Mitra Shakti’ was marked by the participation of over 100 personnel from each country. The troops engaged in a series of tactical drills, field training exercises and live-firing exercises. The scenarios included complex operations such as Urban Warfare, Fighting in Built Up Areas and Convoy Protection. The exercise also featured joint planning and execution of operations, which provided an opportunity for both armies to exchange best practices and strengthen their operational capabilities.
Moreover, the exercise serves as a platform for both nations to address common security concerns, including maritime security, anti-terrorism, and disaster response. The collaboration underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing these challenges effectively.
The successful conduct of ‘Mitra Shakti X’ 2024 sends a strong message to the international community about the robust defence partnership between India and Sri Lanka. It also highlights the increasing emphasis both countries have placing on joint military cooperation.
The success of ‘Mitra Shakti’ 2024 is a clear indicator of the strong bond between India and Sri Lanka, a bond that is poised to grow stronger with each passing year. Both nations look forward to deeper military collaboration, ensuring that they remain well-prepared to face any future challenges together.
