India, Sri Lanka begin 12th edition of joint military exercise Mitra Shakti 2026 - The Times of India

A 170-member Indian military contingent has departed for Sri Lanka to participate in the 12th edition of the joint military exercise Mitra Shakti 2026, scheduled from November 13 to 26.According to the ministry of defence, the contingent comprises primarily troops from a battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, along with personnel from other arms and services and the Indian Air Force. The exercise will be held at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka.The Rajputana Rifles is one of the oldest infantry regiments of the Indian Army, with a history spanning more than 250 years. The regiment has previously participated in Mitra Shakti, including the 10th edition held in Sri Lanka in August 2024.Mitra Shakti is an annual bilateral military exercise conducted alternately in India and Sri Lanka. It aims to strengthen interoperability between the two armies and enhance their ability to conduct joint counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban environments.The 2026 edition will involve joint operational planning and tactical drills, including urban patrolling, vehicle convoy protection, area ambushes, crowd dispersal and combined arms operations against fortified positions.The exercise will conclude with a joint validation exercise in which troops from both countries will demonstrate the operational tactics and procedures practised during the training.India-Sri Lanka military cooperation through such exercises is aimed at strengthening defence ties, improving coordination between the armed forces and contributing to regional security.