News Excerpt:
The 14th edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “Vajra Prahar 2023” was recently commenced in Meghalaya.
About the Joint Exercise - “Vajra Prahar”
- This is the 14th Edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise conducted, which commenced in Meghalaya (Umroi) from 21st November to 11th December 2023.
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- However, the 1st edition was conducted in 2010 in India, and the previous 13th was conducted at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS), Himachal Pradesh (Bakloh).
- Aim: To share best practices and experiences through collaborative planning and operational tactics.
- It is also a platform to enhance interoperability and strengthen defence cooperation between India's armies and the United States of America.
- The US contingent was represented by its personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) of the US Special Forces.
- Both sides jointly planned and rehearsed a series of Special Operations. It included:
- Combat free fall insertion of troops from stand-off distances.
- Waterborne insertion of troops.
- Precision engagement of targets at long ranges.
- Combat air control of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft.
- Airborne insertion and sustenance of troops.
Other Indo-US Joint Exercises:
- Malabar Exercise: The main objective of this joint exercise (India, the US, Japan, and Australia) is to coordinate for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
- Yudh Abhyas: This Annual army exercise aims to enhance military cooperation and understanding.
- Red Flag: Advanced aerial combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force and international participants, including India.
- Spartan Shield: Army exercise aimed at building operational capacity in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism.
- Cope India: Air force exercise to improve interoperability and mutual understanding between air forces.
- Tiger Triumph: Tri-service amphibious exercise focusing on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
