Exercise MITRA SHAKTI XI – 2025
Context:
The Eleventh edition of the Joint Military exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025 commenced at the Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, Karnataka
The exercise is being conducted from 10 to 23 November 2025
Participants:
Indian Contingent:
170 personnel, represented mainly by troops from the RAJPUT Regiment.
20 personnel from the Indian Air Force are also participating
Sri Lankan Contingent:
135 personnel, represented mainly by troops from the GAJABA Regiment.
10 personnel from the Sri Lankan Air Force are also participating
Aim and Scope:
To jointly rehearse the conduct of Sub Conventional Operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate
Includes synergising joint responses during counter-terrorist operations
Key Activities and Drills:
Both sides will practice tactical actions (such as raid, search and destroy missions, and heliborne operations)
The exercise will involve the employment of Drones and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems, besides helicopters
Drills to secure helipads and undertake casualty evacuation during counter-terrorist operations will be rehearsed
Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), combat reflex shooting, and Yoga will also form part of the exercise curriculum
Strategic Objectives:
Collective efforts will focus on achieving an enhanced level of interoperability amongst the troops
The sharing of best practices will further enhance the level of defence cooperation between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army
The exercise will also foster strong bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations.