LOC16:26
13:26 GMT
NEW DELHI, Nov 10 (KUNA) -- The 11th edition of India Sri Lanka joint military exercise Mitra Shakti-2025 kicked off on Monday at Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, in southern Indian state of Karnataka.
The Indian Ministry of Defense said in a statement that in the joint military exercise being conducted from 10 to 23 November, the Indian contingent comprising 170 personnel, is being represented mainly by troops from the Rajput, while the Sri Lankan side is being represented by 135 personnel mainly from Gajaba Regiment.
In addition, 20 personnel from Indian Air Force and 10 personnel from Sri Lankan Air Force are also participating in the exercise.
"The aim of the exercise is to jointly rehearse conduct of Sub Conventional Operations under Chapter VII of UN Mandate," the statement said.
Both sides will practice tactical actions such as raid, search and destroy missions, heliborne operations, Army Martial Arts Routine, combat reflex shooting and Yoga. The joint military exercise will also see employment of drones and counter unmanned aerial systems besides helicopters. Drills to secure helipads and undertake casualty evacuation during counter-terrorist operations will also be rehearsed jointly by both sides.
Collective efforts will focus on achieving an enhanced level of interoperability amongst the troops and reduce the risk of life and property, the Indian Ministry said. Both the teams will exchange views and practices of joint drills to enhance the level of defence cooperation between Indian and Sri Lankan Armies, in addition to fostering strong bilateral relations between the two neighbours. (end)
atk.mt