News: The US Army contingent arrived in India for the 16th edition of Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR at Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, in 2026.
About Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR
- Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR is a joint bilateral Special Forces exercise conducted between the Indian Army and the United States Army.
- Started in: The exercise was first conducted in India in 2010 as part of expanding defence collaboration between both countries.
- Aim: The exercise aims to promote military cooperation by enhancing interoperability, jointness, and mutual exchange of special operations tactics and expertise.
- 2026 Edition: The current edition is the 16th edition of Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR conducted in 2026 in India.
- Location: The 16th edition is being conducted at the Special Forces Training School, Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, India.
- Participants
- The Indian Army is represented by Special Forces units comprising 45 personnel.
- The United States Army is represented by 12 personnel from the Green Berets Special Forces.
- Key Features
- Joint Operational Training: The exercise focuses on joint mission planning, joint tactical drills, and strengthening joint operational readiness in mountainous terrain.
- Exchange of Expertise: Participating troops share best practices, operational experiences, and special operations tactics, techniques, and procedures.
