New Delhi, February 24 The Indian and US armies began a three-week military exercise in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday, in line with their broader goal of enhancing operational interoperability.
The 16th edition of the exercise, "Vajra Prahar," is designed to strengthen combined capabilities for conducting joint special forces operations in mountainous terrain, the Indian Army said.
The previous edition of the exercise was held at the Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, US, in November 2024.
"The aim of exercise Vajra Prahar is to promote military cooperation between India and the United States through enhanced interoperability, jointness, and mutual exchange of special operations tactics," the Army said in a statement.
It said the training would focus on a high degree of physical conditioning, joint mission planning, and the execution of joint tactical drills.
"Participating troops will share best practices and operational experiences in areas such as joint mission planning and special operations tactics, techniques, and procedures," the Army said.
"The exercise is expected to further deepen interoperability, mutual trust, and professional camaraderie between the special forces of both nations, reinforcing the growing defense partnership between India and the United States," it said.
Separately, the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) began a two-week military exercise named "Dharma Guardian" at Chaubattia, Uttarakhand, on Tuesday.
"The aim of Exercise Dharma Guardian is to strengthen military collaboration and enhance combined capabilities to undertake joint operations in a semi-urban environment," the Army said.
-- RT