10th bilateral Mitra Shakti Military Exercise Commences in Sri Lanka

The annual bilateral Mitra Shakti military exercise between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army commenced in the Sri Lankan Army Training School, Maduru Oya, on 12 August 2024. The week-long exercise, which runs from 12 to 25 August, is an annual Combined Training Exercise of the two countries' Forces. 

The joint exercise is a part of Indian diplomacy to strengthen military-to-military ties with the Sri Lankan Armed forces and strengthen bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

10 Edition of Mitra Shakti Exercise 

The annual Mitra Shakti exercise started in 2012 and is held alternately in India and Sri Lanka. The 2024 exercise is the 10th edition, and the 9th exercise was held in Pune, India, in 2023. 

The Mitra Shakti exercise is focused on infantry, and generally, two mixed infantry divisions of the Indian and Sri Lankan Army participate in it.

This year the 106 personnel of the Rajputana Rifles are participating in the exercise.The Sri Lanka  Gajaba Regiment is representing Sri Lanka.

During the exercise, each side will deploy one Infantry Battalion, three Armoured Tanks, four BMP tanks, five to ten Artillery observers, fifty Engineers personnel, etc.

Phases of the 10th Mitra Shakti 

The aim of the week-long 10th edition of the Mitra Shakti exercise is to hone the skill of both armies in conducting anti-terrorist operations in urban areas. The exercise will be conducted in four phases.

• In Phase One, there will be a static display and demonstration of weapons and equipment by both sides.
• In the second phase, both sides would undergo training and rehearsals, including night training.
• In the third phase, the sports competition will be organised to promote friendship and camaraderie between the two armies.
• In the fourth and final phase comprehensive exercise will be undertaken by both the armed forces.