India, Sri Lanka begin 12th edition of joint military exercise MITRA SHAKTI
By Aroonim Bhuyan
New Delhi. A 170-member Indian military contingent has departed for Sri Lanka to participate in the 12th edition of the India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise, MITRA SHAKTI 2026, aimed at strengthening interoperability and enhancing the two countries’ ability to conduct counter-terrorism operations.
The 14-day exercise will be held at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka, from November 13 to 26. The Indian contingent comprises mainly personnel from a battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, along with troops from other arms and services and personnel of the Indian Air Force.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the exercise is designed to enhance the joint operational capabilities of the two armies in conducting counter-terrorism operations in a semi-urban environment under a United Nations mandate.
The annual bilateral exercise, conducted alternately in India and Sri Lanka, provides a platform for the armed forces of the two countries to improve interoperability, exchange operational experiences and share best practices. It also seeks to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen professional ties between the participating personnel.
Focus on joint operational preparedness
The training programme will focus on improving physical fitness, sharpening tactical skills and strengthening coordination between the two contingents. It will include joint planning and rehearsals of tactical operations, alongside specialised combat training.
The participating troops will practise a range of operational drills, including road-block operations, urban patrolling, protection of vehicle convoys, area ambushes and crowd dispersal. Training will also cover combined-arms operations against fortified positions, reflecting the need for coordinated action in complex operational environments.
The exercise will conclude with a comprehensive validation exercise in which the two contingents will jointly demonstrate and apply the tactics, techniques and procedures practised during the training period.
Strengthening bilateral defence ties
MITRA SHAKTI is an important component of India-Sri Lanka defence engagement, providing an opportunity for the armed forces of the two neighbouring countries to work together and develop a shared understanding of operational challenges.
The 2026 edition is expected to further consolidate military cooperation, reinforce longstanding ties of friendship and mutual trust, and contribute to regional peace, stability and security.
India and Sri Lanka have traditionally maintained close defence and security cooperation, shaped by their geographical proximity and shared concerns over regional security. Joint military exercises such as MITRA SHAKTI help sustain this engagement through regular interaction, professional exchanges and practical training.
The participation of personnel from different arms and services, as well as the Indian Air Force, also underscores the importance of coordinated, multi-dimensional responses to contemporary security challenges.
By focusing on counter-terrorism operations under a UN mandate, the exercise will help both sides improve their ability to plan and execute coordinated missions while strengthening the professional relationship between their armed forces.
