Indian Army and Sri Lankan forces to conduct Exercise Mitra Shakti with focus on counter-terrorism

The annual India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise, Mitra Shakti 2023, is set to take place from November 16 to 29 in Pune. The exercise, centered on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, aims to foster strong connections between the militaries of both countries, emphasizing tactical operations at the sub-unit level in an international counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism environment. 

Mitra Shakti, translating to "power of friendship," is the largest bilateral exercise conducted by the Sri Lankan Army, symbolizing the increasing defence collaboration between India and Sri Lanka. The exercise, carried out under a United Nations mandate, involves tactical operations, airborne missions, and cooperative military manoeuvres, fostering grassroots collaboration and synergy between the two South Asian nations. 

Evolution of Mitra Shakti as a Catalyst for bilateral military cooperation

In its 8th edition, Mitra Shakti 2023 builds upon the historical context of previous exercises, with the 7th edition held in Pune in 2019 and the 8th edition commencing in Sri Lanka in 2021. The exercise focuses on strengthening and developing excellent ties between the Indian and Sri Lankan militaries, incorporating contemporary dynamics of UN peacekeeping operations. 

The exercise unfolds in three phases. The first phase includes coast guard, paramilitary, and special forces drills, live artillery firing, airborne missions, and cooperative military manoeuvres. The second phase features joint military manoeuvres, combat forces parachuting, and live artillery firing with air support. The last phase focuses on simulated ground and air operations, testing the skills and capabilities of both armies. 

Mitra Shakti underlines commitment to UN peacekeeping forces

Mitra Shakti, conducted under a United Nations mandate, signifies the shared responsibility of both Indian and Sri Lankan forces in UN Peacekeeping Forces worldwide. The exercise involves tactical level operations at the sub-unit level, contributing to the strengthening of the relationship between both South Asian nations and fostering synergy and cooperation at the grassroots level. 

The annual training programme between India and Sri Lanka, exemplified by Mitra Shakti, contributes significantly to strengthening bilateral military cooperation, understanding, and bonds between the two nations. With an all-arms detachment of 120 Indian Army soldiers and a battalion-sized deployment of Sri Lankan Army personnel, the exercise underscores the strategic significance of joint military training. 

Building on Friendship: Mitra Shakti 2023 Promotes Grassroots Collaboration and Synergy 

Mitra Shakti, embodying the spirit of friendship, enhances the bonds between the Indian and Sri Lankan militaries. It catalyzes grassroots collaboration and synergy, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to mutual cooperation in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.