The 11th edition of the joint military exercise "Mitra Shakti" between India and Sri Lanka commenced today, November 10, 2025, at the Foreign Training Node in Belagavi, Karnataka. The exercise, scheduled to continue until November 23, 2025, underscores the shared commitment of both nations to regional peace and security, while further strengthening defense cooperation, camaraderie, and mutual trust between the two forces.
The Indian contingent consists of 170 personnel, primarily represented by troops from the RAJPUT Regiment. The Sri Lankan side is represented by 135 personnel, mainly from the GAJABA Regiment. Additionally, 20 personnel from the Indian Air Force and 10 from the Sri Lankan Air Force are participating in the exercise.
Mitra Shakti 2025 aims to enhance operational synergy between the Indian and Sri Lankan armies in conducting joint operations in urban and semi-urban terrains. The exercise focuses on jointly rehearsing sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate, which includes synergizing joint responses during counter-terrorist operations. Both sides will practice tactical actions such as raid, search and destroy missions, and heliborne operations. The curriculum will also include Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), combat reflex shooting, and Yoga.
The exercise will incorporate the use of drones and counter-unmanned aerial systems, in addition to helicopters. Drills to secure helipads and casualty evacuation procedures during counter-terrorist operations will also be rehearsed. These collective efforts aim to achieve enhanced interoperability among the troops and reduce the risk to life and property, while upholding the interests and agenda of the UN during peacekeeping operations.
During the exercise, both sides will exchange views and practices on a wide range of combat skills, facilitating mutual learning. Sharing best practices will further enhance the level of defense cooperation between the Indian and Sri Lankan armies.
The annual joint military exercise is conducted alternatively in India and Sri Lanka. The 10th edition of Mitra Shakti took place at the Army Training School, Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. During that iteration, the Indian contingent comprised 106 personnel represented by a battalion of the Rajputana Rifles along with personnel from other arms and services, while the Sri Lankan contingent was represented by personnel from the Gajaba Regiment.
The Joint Military Exercise 'Mitra Shakti' has been instrumental in strengthening the strategic partnership between the Indian and Sri Lankan forces in counter-terrorism efforts by providing a platform for sharing best practices and refining tactical approaches. A final planning conference for Exercise Mithra Shakti XI was held in Belagavi from July 30 to August 2, 2025, where Brigadier D.S Jayawardana, the Director Infantry of the Sri Lanka Army, along with three Senior Officers, collaborated with Indian military officials to finalize operational details for the exercise, including a field visit to the training areas.
