Eleventh edition of Joint Military exercise “Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025” commenced on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, Karnataka. Photo credit: X/@PIB_India
The eleventh edition of the joint military exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025 between India and Sri Lanka began on Monday (November 10, 2025) at the Foreign Training Node in Belagavi, Karnataka. The exercise will be held till November 23.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the Indian contingent of 170 personnel is represented mainly by troops from the Rajput Regiment, while the Sri Lankan contingent of 135 personnel comprises troops primarily from the Gajaba Regiment. In addition, 20 personnel from the Indian Air Force and 10 personnel from the Sri Lankan Air Force are participating in the exercise.
The aim of the exercise is to jointly rehearse the conduct of sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate, with a focus on enhancing interoperability in counter-terrorist operations. The training curriculum includes raid and search missions, heliborne operations, search-and-destroy tasks, Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), combat reflex shooting and yoga, the Ministry said.
The exercise integrates the employment of drones, counter-unmanned aerial systems and helicopters. Joint drills will include securing helipads and conducting casualty evacuation under operational conditions. The collective effort aims to enhance coordination between personnel of both armies in peacekeeping and counter-terror scenarios.
The exercise is expected to further strengthen defence cooperation and foster stronger bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka.
Published – November 10, 2025 09:22 pm IST
