Defence Exercises in News
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  • Mitra Shakti Exercise 2024

    Source- This post on Mitra Shakti Exercise 2024 has been created based on the article “Mitra Shakti: Indian and Sri Lankan Armies to begin joint exercise” published in “PIB on 12 August 2024.

    Why in News?

    Next week, the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army will commence the 10th edition of their joint exercise, “Mitra Shakti,” at Maduruoya in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.

    Mitra Shakti
    Source- PIB

    About Mitra Shakti Exercise

    AspectsDescription
    About1. The 10th edition of the “Mitra Shakti” joint exercise will start on August 12, 2024, in Maduruoya, Sri Lanka.
    2. This annual exercise is designed to improve cooperation and coordination between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army.
    Previous exercise1. The last exercise, the 9th edition, took place in Pune, India.
    2. The focus included using drones, countering unmanned aerial systems, securing helipads, and casualty evacuations.
    Participants1. Indian Army: A unit of 120 soldiers from the Rajputana Rifles (Raj Rif) will participate.
    2. Sri Lankan Army: 120 soldiers from the Gajaba Regiment will join the exercise.
    Both units are elite infantry forces with specialized skills.
    Main Focus1. The main focus is on joint operations in semi-urban environments.
    2. The exercise aligns with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which deals with maintaining international peace and security.
    Objectives1. Enhance Skills: Improve the operational abilities of both armies through shared experiences and best practices.
    2. Counter-terrorism and Urban Warfare: Train to handle modern security issues, including counter-terrorism and urban combat.
    3. Strengthen Defence Ties: Boost coordination and strengthen military relations between India and Sri Lanka.
    Significance1. Regional Stability: These joint exercises help maintain and promote stability in the region.
    2. Collaborative Efforts: Both nations work together to address common security challenges and enhance readiness.

    UPSC Syllabus: Defence exercise

  • Maritime partnership exercise (MPX)

    Source- This post on Maritime partnership exercise (MPX) has been created based on the article “INDIAN NAVAL SHIP TABAR CONDUCTS MARITIME PARTNERSHIP EXERCISE (MPX) WITH RUSSIAN NAVAL SHIP SOOBRAZITELNY” published in PIB on 5 August 2024.

    Why in News?

    Recently, a maritime partnership exercise (MPX) took place between India and Russia in St. Petersburg.

    About Maritime partnership exercise (MPX)

    Maritime Partnership Exercise
    Source: PIB
    AspectsDescription
    ParticipantsINS Tabar naval ship is participating from India and
    Soobrazitelny naval ship from Russia.
    SignificanceThis exercise highlights the commitment of both nations to maintain peace, stability, and security in the region.
    Activities during the exerciseThe MPX involved a series of complex naval maneuvers.
    i) Communication Drills: Ships practiced advanced communication techniques.
    ii) Search & Rescue Tactics: Teams performed search and rescue operations.
    iii) Replenishment at Sea: Ships conducted refueling and supply operations while at sea.
    iv) Professionalism and Interoperability: Ships from both navies demonstrated high levels of professionalism and the ability to work seamlessly together.
    Benefits1. Bilateral Naval Ties: The MPX reinforces the strong naval relationship between India and Russia.
    2. Enhanced Cooperation: The exercise strengthens the resolve and commitment of both nations towards ensuring enhanced cooperation in the maritime domain.
    3. Global Partnerships: The Indian Navy remains dedicated to fostering partnerships with navies across the world.

    UPSC Syllabus: Defence exercises

  • Tarang Shakti Air Exercise

    Source- This post on Tarang Shakti Air Exercise has been created based on the article “What is Tarang Shakti, the largest military exercise that India will host?” published in “The Hindustan Times” on “31st July 2024“.

    Why in News?

    India’s air exercise ‘Tarang Shakti’ will be the first and largest international air exercise ever conducted in India. Invitations have been extended to 51 countries for this exercise.

    Tarang Shakti
    Source- IAF

    About Tarang Shakti

    Tarang ShaktiIt is the first and largest international air exercise ever conducted in India.
    AimThis exercise aims to strengthen strategic relations with the international community.
    Phases of the ExerciseThe Exercise will be conducted in two phases-
    Phase one- It will be conducted at Sulur in Tamil Nadu from August 6 to August 14. Four countries including France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom will participate with their assets.
    Phase two- It will be held at Jodhpur in Rajasthan from September 1 to 14. It will see participation from Australia, Bangladesh, Greece, Singapore, UAE and the USA with their assets.
    Assets Participation1. Assets like F-18, A-18, C-130 aircraft, F-16 aircraft, A-10, KC-130 aircraft, KC-135 aircraft along with all the assets of the Indian Air Force.
    2. Eurofighter Typhoon and Rafale from other countries.
    3. Indian Navy with MiG-29K aircraft
    Other Objectives1. Showcasing the booming indigenous defence ecosystem in India.
    2. Supporting the country’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
    3. Defence industrial expo that will showcase top Indian defence companies and innovative startups.

    UPSC Syllabus- Defence Exercises

  • Exercise KHAAN QUEST

    Source- This post on the Exercise KHAAN QUEST has been created based on the article “INDIAN ARMY CONTINGENT DEPARTS FOR MULTINATIONAL MILITARY EXERCISE KHAAN QUEST” published in “PIB” on 27 July 2024.

    Why in the news?

    Recently, the Indian Army contingent has departed for Exercise KHAAN QUEST.

    About Exercise KHAAN QUEST

    Exercise KHAAN QUEST
    PIB
    AspectsDescription
    About1. This exercise is a multinational military exercise.
    2. It will take place from 27th July to 9th August 2024 at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
    3. It began as a bilateral event between the USA and Mongolian Armed Forces in 2003 and expanded to become a Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise in 2006.
    4. The current edition is the 21st iteration of the exercise.
    PurposeTo bring together military forces worldwide to collaborate and enhance their peacekeeping capabilities.
    PartcipantsIt includes 40 personnel mainly from a Battalion of the MADRAS REGIMENT, along with personnel from other Arms and Services including one Woman Officer and two Women Soldiers.
    Aim1. To prepare Indian Armed Forces for peacekeeping missions in a multinational environment.
    2. To increase interoperability and military readiness in peace support operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
    Activities1. The exercise will involve practicing tactical drills such as establishing static and mobile checkpoints, and conducting cordon and search operations.
    2. This exercise aims to enhance interoperability, foster camaraderie, and build strong relationships among soldiers from the participating countries.

    UPSC Syllabus: Defence exercise

  • Exercise Pitch Black 2024

    Source- This post on the Exercise Pitch Black 2024 has been created based on the article “INDIAN AIR FORCE EX PITCH BLACK 2024 AT DARWIN, AUSTRALIA”  published in “PIB” on 12 July 2024.

    Why in the news?

    Recently, an Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent landed at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base in Darwin, Australia to participate in Exercise Pitch Black 2024. This year marks the largest edition in its 43-year history, involving 20 countries, 140+ aircraft, and 4400 military personnel.

    About Exercise Pitch Black 2024

    Exercise
    Source:IE
    AspectsDescription
    Location1. The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has arrived at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Darwin, Australia.
    2. The exercise will take place from 12 July 2024 to 02 August 2024.
    NatureIt is biennial multinational exercise hosted by the RAAF.
    It emphasizes nighttime flying over expansive, unpopulated areas.
    Objectives1. It focuses on Large Force Employment warfare, enhancing international cooperation and operational experience.
    2. It also aims to integrate IAF’s Su-30 MKI with other advanced fighter aircraft like F-35, F-22, F-18, F-15, Gripen, and Typhoon.
    Participation1. Over 150 skilled Air Warriors including pilots, engineers, technicians, and controllers are part of the Indian contingent.
    2. IAF has previously participated in the 2018 and 2022 editions of Exercise Pitch Black, contributing to its ongoing commitment to international military exercises and cooperation.
    Benefits1. It facilitates force integration among participating nations and exchange of best practices.
    2. It strengthens capabilities for deploying over large distances, supports integrated operations in the Indo-Pacific region, and fosters robust aviation partnerships.

    UPSC Syllabus: Exercise in news

  • Exercise HOPEX

    Source-This post on Exercise HOPEX has been created based on the article “Ex-HOPEX: India-Egypt Defence Cooperation Strengthens; IAF And Egyptian Air Force hold drill” published in “Financial express” on 25 June 2024.

    Why in the news?

    The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Rafale fighter jets are presently in Egypt for Exercise HOPEX. Additionally, the C-17 Globemaster and IL-78 tankers are participating in the weeklong exercise, which takes place from June 21 to June 26.

    About Exercise HOPEX

    Source-Financial Express

    1) Participating Nations-It is the fourth joint exercise of IAF (Indian Air Force) and EAF (Egyptian Air Force) which was held in Egypt from 21 to 26 June.

    2) Aim-To enhance bilateral and regional cooperation, symbolizing the enduring relationship between the two nations.

    3) Significance-

    A) It will enhance operational capabilities of both air forces.

    B) It will improve interoperability.

    C) It will encourage sharing of best practices and tactics

    D) It will further strengthen bilateral relations between India and Egypt.

    About India and Egypt relationship

    1) India and Egypt established diplomatic ties at the ambassadorial level on August 18, 1947.

    2) As founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement, both nations have collaborated closely on multilateral platforms. In 2022, India and Egypt celebrated the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, underscoring the strength and depth of their bilateral ties.

    Read more-DUSTLIK- Military Exercise

    UPSC Syllabus-Defence Exercises

  • Tarang Shakti Exercise 2024

    Source- This post on Tarang Shakti Exercise is based on the article “India to host its first multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti in August” published in “The Hindu” on 17th May 2024.

    Why in the News?

    India will host its first multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2024 in August.

    About Tarang Shakti Exercise 2024

    Exercise Tarang Shakti
    Source: The Hindu
    Aspects Description
    AboutIt is the Indian Air Force’s first multinational air exercise which will be held in August.
    Participating Nations1. Ten countries will be participating in the exercise. In addition to this, few others would be acting as observers.
    2. Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States will be sending contingents.
    3. Germany will deploy fighter jets and also an A-400M transport aircraft.
    ObjectivesThe plan is to invite friendly foreign countries with whom the IAF interacts regularly and has a certain degree of interoperability.
    What will happen during the exercise1. The exercise is now planned to take place in two phases.
    2. The first phase will occur in southern India during the first two weeks of August, and the second phase will be in the western sector from late August to mid-September.
    3. Some countries will participate in both phases, while others will join only one of the two phases.

    About Red Flag exercise

    Aspects Description
    About1. Red Flag is an air combat exercise conducted with multiple scenarios designed to provide realistic combat settings.
    2. It is the Second edition of Red Flag this year.
    3. Red Flag is conducted four times annually by the USAF.
    Hosted byU.S. Air Force (USAF)
    Held atEielson Air Force Base, Alaska
    Parcipating ForceIndian Air Force (IAF), Singapore Air Force, U.K.’s Royal Air Force, Royal Netherlands Air Force and German Luftwaffe
    What will happen during the exercise1. Air combat exercise with multiple realistic combat scenarios
    Forces divided into two groups:
    2. Red Force:It will simulates air defence elements
    3. Blue Force: It will simulates offensive composite elements
    4. In this edition, the Red Force comprised mainly of the USAF Aggressor Squadron, flying F-16 and F-15 aircraft.

    UPSC Syllabus: Defence Exercise

  • Exercise SHAKTI 

    Source- This post on Exercise SHAKTI is based on the article “India -France joint military exercise Shakti commences in Meghalaya” published in “PIB” on 14th May 2024.

    Why in the News?

    Recently India and France commenced the 7th edition of India- France Joint Military Exercise SHAKTI commenced at Umroi, Meghalaya.

    About Exercise SHAKTI

    EXERCISE SHAKTI
    Source: PIB
    Aspects Description
    About1. It is a biennial training event conducted alternatively in India and France. The last edition was conducted in France in November 2021.
    2. The 7th edition of India- France Joint Military Exercise SHAKTI commenced at Meghalaya.
    Participating NationsIndia and France
    ObjectivesObjectives of Joint Training:
    i) Achieve a high degree of physical fitness.
    ii) Rehearse and refine tactical level operations.
    iii) Exchange best practices between forces.
    FocusThe joint exercise will focus on operations in the semi-urban and mountainous terrain. 
    What will happen during the exercise1. The tactical drills will cover a range of operations including responding to terrorist actions that involve seizing a specific territory, setting up a Joint Command Post.
    2. It also includes establishing an Intelligence & Surveillance Centre, securing helipads or landing sites, conducting Small Team Insertion & Extraction.
    Benefits 1. It will enable the two sides to share their best practices in Tactics, Techniques and Procedures of conducting joint operations.
    2. The joint exercise will facilitate developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between armed forces personnel of the two countries.
    3. This will also enhance the level of defence cooperation and foster bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

    UPSC Syllabus: Defence Exercises

  • Exercise Poorvi Lehar

    Source-This post on Exercise Poorvi Lehar has been created based on the article “INDIAN NAVY CONDUCTS EXERCISE POORVI LEHAR ON THE EAST COAST” published in “PIB” on 20 April 2024.

    Why in the news?

    The Indian Navy carried out Exercise Poorvi Lehar on the East Coast under the operational command of the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.

    About Exercise Poorvi Lehar

    Exercise Poorvi Lehar
    Source-PIB

    Description-It is a maritime exercise conducted by the Indian Navy along the East Coast, under the operational direction of the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.

    Aim of the exercise-The exercise is aimed at assessing the ability of the Indian Navy to handle maritime security challenges in the region by testing its procedures.

    Participation-The exercise witnessed participation of Ships, Submarines, Aircraft and Special Forces.

    Phases-The exercise had different stages. In one part, there was combat training in a realistic scenario, and in another, they successfully fired various weapons to show the Indian Navy’s ability to hit targets accurately.

    Interoperability-Apart from assets from the Eastern Naval Command, the exercise also included assets from the Indian Air Force, Andaman & Nicobar Command, and Coast Guard. This demonstrated a high degree of interoperability amongst the Services

    What is the significance of the Exercise Poorvi Lehar?

    1) It provided important lessons to the participating forces. This has helped them to prepare themselves in a better way to respond effectively to real maritime challenges in the region.

    2) It has helped in maintaining continuous Maritime Domain Awareness throughout the Area of operations by using aircraft from diverse locations.

    Read more-Exercise Dosti

    UPSC Syllabus-Defence Exercises.

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