Why is it in the News?

A joint exercise of the special forces of India and the United States commenced in Meghalaya’s Umroi Cantonment on Tuesday.

About Exercise Vajra Prahar 2023:

• Exercise Vajra Prahar is a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and the US Army Special Forces.
• It is the 14th such exercise aimed at sharing the best practices and experiences in areas such as joint mission planning and operational tactics
• Representing the US, personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) of the US Special Forces are actively engaged.
• The Indian Army contingent, led by Special Forces personnel from the Eastern Command, contributes to this joint training effort.
• The first edition took place in India in 2010, and the 13th edition occurred at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS), Bakloh (HP).
• This continuity highlights the longstanding commitment to strengthening Indo-US defense ties.
• The 14th edition is currently underway at Umroi Cantonment, Meghalaya, spanning from 21st November to 11th December 2023.
• This location serves as the backdrop for intensive training and cooperation.
• Exercise Vajra Prahar serves as a crucial platform to enhance inter-operability between the Indian and US armies.
• This emphasis on seamless coordination aims to bolster defense cooperation and strategic alignment.

Other Exercises between India and the USA:

1. YUDHABHAYAS- Army
2. VAJRA PRAHAR- Army
3. Exercise MALABAR (Multilateral)- Indian Navy
4. RED FLAG 16-1- Air Force
5. Exercise COPE India 23- Air Force