India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Military Ties with Mitra Shakti 2025
The Indian Army has announced the commencement of the eleventh edition of the annual joint military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, codenamed 'Mitra Shakti.' This significant bilateral event is scheduled to take place at the Foreign Training Node in Belagavi, Karnataka, from November 10 to 23, 2025.
Enhancing Operational Capabilities
According to the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) of the Indian Army, the primary objective of Exercise Mitra Shakti 2025 is to enhance operational synergy between the Indian and Sri Lankan armies. The focus will be on conducting joint military operations across challenging urban and semi-urban terrains, reflecting modern security requirements.
This collaborative training underscores the shared commitment of both nations toward maintaining regional peace and security. The exercise aims to strengthen defense cooperation between the two forces while serving as a platform to solidify the strategic partnership that exists between India and Sri Lanka.
Geopolitical Significance and Training Rotation
The ADGPI emphasized the exercise's importance in a social media post, stating that Mitra Shakti 2025 will not only enhance military coordination but also strengthen defense cooperation, camaraderie, and mutual trust between the participating forces.
Mitra Shakti follows an annual rotation system, being hosted alternately in India and Sri Lanka. The previous tenth edition was conducted in 2024 at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. During that exercise, the Indian contingent consisted of 106 personnel represented by a Battalion of Rajputana Rifles along with personnel from other arms and services. The Sri Lankan side was represented by personnel from the Gajaba Regiment of the Sri Lankan Army.
Building on Previous Success
The Indian Army has previously noted the significant value of the Mitra Shakti joint military exercises in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two forces, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts. The exercise provides a vital platform for sharing best practices and refining tactical approaches in this crucial security domain.
As both nations prepare for the upcoming drills in Belagavi, the exercise represents another step forward in the enduring defense relationship between India and Sri Lanka, contributing to greater stability and security cooperation in the South Asian region.
