Indian and French armies participate in joint military exercise ‘Shakti’

The Indian and French armies are sharing critical skills in jungle survival and mountain operations during the 7th edition of the ongoing Joint Exercise Shakti. The biennial training event, being held from May 13-26 in Umroi, Meghalaya, aims to enhance the militaries’ capabilities for multi-domain operations in semi-conventional scenarios.

Indian and French troops have been rigorously practicing survival techniques essential for self-preservation in challenging jungle and mountain environments. Mastering these skills is a key focus as the two nations’ contingents undertake tactical drills mirroring real-world operations.

“Exercise Shakti enables the two sides to share best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures for conducting joint operations,” said an Indian military spokesman. “It will facilitate the development of interoperability, bonhomie and camaraderie between our armed forces personnel.”

The joint exercise involves a 90-member Indian contingent primarily from the Rajput Regiment, supplemented by personnel from other military branches. The French side has deployed 90 soldiers, mainly from the 13th Foreign Legion Half-Brigade.

Tactical operations being rehearsed include response to terrorist actions, establishing joint command posts, intelligence surveillance, helicopter operations, cordon and search maneuvers, and the use of drones and counter-drone systems.

Beyond honing operational readiness, Exercise Shakti aims to deepen defense cooperation and bilateral relations between India and France, the two friendly nations.

The opening ceremony on May 13 was attended by French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou and Indian Army’s Major General Prasanna Sudhakar Joshi. Observers from the Indian Navy and Air Force are also participating.