India–US Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘Vajra Prahar’ Begins in Himachal Pradesh

The 16th edition of the India–US Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘Vajra Prahar’ is set to be conducted at the Special Forces Training School, Bakloh, in Himachal Pradesh from 24 February to 16 March 2026.

The exercise will witness participation from the Indian Army and the United States Army, strengthening defence ties between the two nations.

Participating Contingents

• The Indian Army contingent comprises 45 personnel from Special Forces units.
• The United States will be represented by 12 personnel from the Green Berets.

The previous edition of the exercise was held in November 2024 at the Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, USA.

Aim of the Exercise

The primary objective of Exercise Vajra Prahar is to:

• Enhance military cooperation
• Improve interoperability between Special Forces
• Strengthen joint operational capabilities
• Exchange expertise in special operations tactics

The drill focuses particularly on conducting joint Special Forces operations in mountainous terrain.

Key Training Components

The training programme includes:

• High-level physical conditioning
• Joint mission planning
• Execution of tactical drills
• Sharing best practices and operational experiences
• Special operations tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs)

The exercise aims to improve coordination and readiness for complex missions in challenging environments.

Strategic Importance

Exercise Vajra Prahar plays a crucial role in reinforcing the growing defence partnership between India and the United States. It enhances mutual trust, professional camaraderie and operational synergy between the Special Forces of both nations.

MCQs: Exercise Vajra Prahar 2026

Q1. The 16th edition of Exercise ‘Vajra Prahar’ is conducted between India and:
(a) France
(b) Russia
(c) United States
(d) Australia
(e) Japan

Ans: (c)
Sol: The exercise is conducted between India and the United States.

Q2. Exercise Vajra Prahar 2026 is being held in:
(a) Uttarakhand
(b) Ladakh
(c) Himachal Pradesh
(d) Sikkim
(e) Jammu & Kashmir

Ans: (c)
Sol: The exercise is being conducted at Bakloh in Himachal Pradesh.

Q3. The US contingent participating in the exercise belongs to which unit?
(a) Navy SEALs
(b) Delta Force
(c) Green Berets
(d) US Marines
(e) Airborne Rangers

Ans: (c)
Sol: The US is represented by 12 personnel from the Green Berets.

Q4. The primary focus of Exercise Vajra Prahar is to conduct joint operations in:
(a) Desert terrain
(b) Jungle warfare
(c) Naval environment
(d) Mountainous terrain
(e) Urban cyber environment

Ans: (d)
Sol: The exercise is designed for joint Special Forces operations in mountainous terrain.

Q5. The previous edition of Exercise Vajra Prahar was held in:
(a) California
(b) Texas
(c) Idaho
(d) Alaska
(e) Florida

Ans: (c)
Sol: The previous edition was held at the Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, USA.