The Indian and French armies are sharpening critical jungle survival and mountain operation skills during the 7th edition of Joint Exercise Shakti. This biennial event, which is being held in Umroi, Meghalaya, from May 13 to 26, aims to improve multi-domain operating capabilities in semi-conventional circumstances.
The soldiers of both countries are diligently honing the survival skills necessary for self-preservation in hostile settings. These exercises simulate tactical actions in the real world. An Indian military spokeswoman stated, “Exercise Shakti enables both sides to share best practices in joint operations.” “It fosters interoperability, camaraderie, and bonhomie between our armed forces.”
Ninety French soldiers from the 13th Foreign Legion Half-Brigade and ninety Indian soldiers, mostly from the Rajput Regiment, are participating in the drill. Responses to terrorist acts, setting up cooperative command posts, intelligence gathering, helicopter operations, cordon and search manoeuvres, and the use of drone and counter-drone systems are all examples of tactical drills.
Exercise Shakti intends to strengthen defence cooperation and bilateral ties between France and India in addition to improving operational readiness. Major General Prasanna Sudhakar Joshi of the Indian Army and French Ambassador Thierry Mathou attended the opening ceremony on May 13. Observers from the Indian Navy and Air Force also participated.
