India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise Begins

• 13 Aug 2024

On 12th August, 2024, India and Sri Lanka launched the 10th edition of the 'Mitra Shakti' joint military exercise in Sri Lanka, aimed at improving interoperability and sharing best practices between their armed forces.

• The 'Mitra Shakti' exercise, held from August 12 to 25 at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, focuses on enhancing joint military capabilities for counter-insurgency operations in a sub-conventional scenario under UN mandates.
• This annual training event alternates between India and Sri Lanka, with the previous edition held in Pune in November 2023.
• The exercise aims to improve joint military effectiveness by rehearsing tactical drills such as responding to terrorist actions, establishing joint command posts, and setting up intelligence and surveillance centers.
• Other key activities include securing helipads, conducting small team insertions and extractions, performing special heliborne operations, and carrying out cordon and search operations.
• The exercise will also involve the use of drones and counter-drone systems to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Participants from both countries will share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures, fostering interoperability and mutual understanding.