New Delhi, Nov 13 (KNS): A 170-member contingent of the Indian Defence Forces departed for Sri Lanka on Friday to participate in the 12th edition of the India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise ‘Mitra Shakti 2026’, scheduled to be held from November 13 to 26.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the 14-day exercise will take place at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka, with the aim of improving coordination and joint operational capabilities between the armed forces of the two countries.

The Indian contingent primarily comprises personnel from a battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, along with troops from other arms and services and personnel from the Indian Air Force.

The exercise is aimed at strengthening the ability of both armies to conduct counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban environments under a United Nations mandate.

Mitra Shakti is an annual bilateral military exercise conducted alternately in India and Sri Lanka.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelIt provides an opportunity for the participating forces to exchange operational experiences, improve coordination and share practices related to counter-terrorism operations.

The Ministry said the exercise will focus on physical fitness, tactical training and coordination between the participating contingents.

The training programme will include joint operational planning, tactical rehearsals and specialised combat skills, including roadblock operations, urban patrolling, vehicle convoy protection, area ambush, crowd dispersal and combined arms operations against fortified positions.

The exercise will conclude with a comprehensive validation exercise during which personnel from both countries will jointly demonstrate the tactics, techniques and procedures practised during the training.

The Ministry said the exercise is expected to strengthen defence cooperation between India and Sri Lanka and contribute to regional peace, stability and security. (KNS)