Central Idea

Recently, the 14th edition of the Vajra Prahar 2023 exercise, a joint venture between India and the USA Special Forces, concluded in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. Here are the key highlights:

Exercise Vajra Prahar

Vajra Prahar is an annual exercise alternately hosted by the Special Forces of India and the United States.
These Special Forces units are dedicated to covert operations, counterterrorism, and other specialized military tasks.
It is crucial for addressing the security challenges both nations face in the current global context.
It has reinforced the friendship and defence cooperation between the Special Forces of India and the USA.

The 21-day joint exercise aimed to enhance skills in Airborne Operations, Special Operations, and Counter Terrorism under the United Nations Charter.
It was divided into two stages:

1. The initial stage focused on combat conditioning and tactical special mission training.
2. The second stage involved a 48-hour validation exercise to assess the training received in the first phase.

Yudh Abhyas: Annual army exercise focusing on enhancing military cooperation and understanding.
Malabar Exercise: Naval exercise, also including Japan and Australia, focusing on complex maritime operations.
Cope India: Air force exercise aimed at improving interoperability and mutual understanding between air forces.
Tiger Triumph: Tri-service amphibious exercise focusing on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
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.