A 170-member Indian Defence Forces contingent departed today for Sri Lanka to participate in the 12th edition of India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise MITRA SHAKTI 2026.
The exercise is scheduled to be conducted at the Army Training School, Maduru Oya, from today till 26th of this month. Defence Ministry said that the Indian contingent is drawn mainly from a battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, along with troops from other arms and services, and personnel from the Indian Air Force.
The 14 day exercise aims to enhance joint military capability of both armies to undertake Counter Terrorism operations in a semi-urban environment under a United Nations mandate. It will focus on enhancing physical fitness, refining tactical drills and improving coordination between the participating contingents.
Exercise ‘MITRA SHAKTI’ is an annual bilateral military exercise conducted alternately in India and Sri Lanka which provides an important platform for both armies to strengthen interoperability, exchange operational experiences and share best practices in the conduct of Counter Terrorism operations.
