India–Sri Lanka Begin Joint Military Exercise Mitra Shakti 2025

On 10 November 2025, India and Sri Lanka launched the 11ᵗʰ edition of Exercise Mitra Shakti at the Foreign Training Node in Belagavi, Karnataka. This joint military exercise, scheduled till 23 November, is a major step in enhancing bilateral military cooperation and operational coordination between the two countries. Focused on counter-terrorism, sub-conventional warfare, and UN peacekeeping scenarios, the drill showcases a growing commitment to regional security and tactical synergy.

What is Mitra Shakti?

Exercise Mitra Shakti is a recurring bilateral military exercise between the Indian and Sri Lankan armies, initiated to improve coordination in sub-conventional warfare, particularly counter-terror and insurgency operations. It is conducted under the Chapter VII mandate of the United Nations, which allows for enforcement measures to maintain or restore international peace and security.

Over the years, Mitra Shakti has become a symbol of regional defence collaboration, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Key Highlights of Mitra Shakti 2025

Duration and Location

• Dates: 10 to 23 November 2025
• Venue: Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, Karnataka

Participating Forces

• Indian Contingent: 170 personnel, primarily from the Rajput Regiment
• Sri Lankan Contingent: 135 personnel from the Gajaba Regiment

Additional support includes 20 Indian Air Force personnel and 10 from the Sri Lankan Air Force

Training Focus

The primary goal is to simulate sub-conventional operations in a multinational peacekeeping environment, including,

• Search and destroy missions
• Heliborne operations
• Counter-terrorist raids
• Combat reflex shooting
• Drone and counter-drone warfare
• Securing helipads and casualty evacuation drills

The training also integrates Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR) and yoga sessions, highlighting both physical endurance and mental discipline.

Modern Warfare Integration

One of the major highlights of this edition is the employment of drones and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS). These tools are increasingly essential in modern conflict zones where surveillance, rapid response, and threat neutralisation depend heavily on advanced tech. The use of helicopters and heliborne insertions reflects realistic operational challenges faced during urban and semi-urban counter-insurgency missions.

Key Static Facts

• Exercise Name: Mitra Shakti XI – 2025
• Edition: 11ᵗʰ
• Dates: 10 to 23 November 2025
• Venue: Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, Karnataka
• Indian Regiment: Rajput Regiment
• Sri Lankan Regiment: Gajaba Regiment