Exercise ‘Garud Shakti 24’ Begins: Strengthening India-Indonesia Defence Ties

Overview of Exercise Garud Shakti 24: The 9th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Garud Shakti 24’ between India and Indonesia has officially commenced. An Indian Army contingent of 25 personnel recently traveled to Indonesia to participate in the exercise, taking place in Cijantung, Jakarta, from November 1 to November 12, 2024. This collaborative event highlights the deepening defence relationship between the two nations, with both countries committed to regional security and mutual cooperation.

Purpose of Garud Shakti 24

Garud Shakti 24 is designed to strengthen bilateral military ties and improve cooperation between the Indian and Indonesian armies. The primary objectives include:

• Building familiarity with each other’s operational procedures.
• Enhancing mutual understanding and trust.
• Improving interoperability between the special forces of both nations.

Through a series of tactical discussions, military drills, and joint operations, this exercise aims to refine strategic cooperation in real-world scenarios.

Participants in the Joint Exercise

The Indian Army’s Special Forces, represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment, make up the 25-member contingent. The Indonesian military is represented by 40 personnel from their elite Special Forces unit, Kopassus. This collaboration exemplifies both nations’ commitment to tackling mutual security challenges and building resilience against regional threats.

Key Objectives of Garud Shakti 24

The joint military exercise is focused on achieving several objectives essential for seamless cooperation:

1. Understanding Each Other’s Procedures: Both teams will work together to learn and adapt to each other’s operational protocols.
2. Building Mutual Respect and Cooperation: By working closely, both forces will develop stronger interpersonal bonds, fostering trust and collaboration.
3. Enhancing Special Forces Interoperability: The exercise will increase the coordination and tactical synergy between Indian and Indonesian Special Forces, vital for handling joint operations effectively.

Activities and Training Modules in Garud Shakti 24

The exercise includes a range of strategic and tactical training modules, such as:

• Special Operations Planning and Execution: Participants will develop skills in planning and carrying out special operations, ensuring readiness for high-stakes missions.
• Advanced Special Forces Skills Training: The troops will undergo orientation in advanced combat techniques, including jungle warfare, weapon handling, and tactical maneuvers.
• Sharing Tactical Knowledge: Both armies will exchange information on equipment, weaponry, and operational tactics, enhancing the collective expertise of the participants.

Focus on Jungle Warfare Operations

A significant element of Garud Shakti 24 is its emphasis on Jungle Warfare Operations. This aspect includes:

• Operations in Jungle Terrain: Troops will practice navigating dense jungle landscapes, preparing for missions in challenging environments.
• Anti-Terrorism Drills: The training involves simulating strikes on terrorist camps, providing soldiers with real-world tactical experience.
• Validation of Advanced Skills: Exercises to validate both basic and advanced jungle warfare skills are conducted to ensure troops are mission-ready.

Cultural Exchange and Diplomacy

In addition to tactical training, Garud Shakti 24 fosters cultural exchange between Indian and Indonesian soldiers. This program allows troops to understand each other’s lifestyles, customs, and values, building camaraderie and mutual respect that strengthen military partnerships beyond operational training.

Recent Diplomatic Engagements

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. This meeting underscored both nations’ commitment to enhancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and showcased their intent to strengthen regional ties.

The Significance of Defence Cooperation

The Garud Shakti exercise symbolizes the growing defence cooperation between India and Indonesia. It highlights a shared vision for peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, with joint exercises like Garud Shakti enhancing preparedness against shared threats.

Future Prospects for India-Indonesia Defence Relations

As India and Indonesia continue their joint military engagements, future exercises may include even more complex scenarios, furthering the depth of their defence cooperation. This ongoing partnership is critical for promoting stability and resilience in the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing both nations’ roles as pillars of security in the region.

Garud Shakti 24 represents a vital step forward in India-Indonesia defence relations, providing a foundation for future collaboration through joint training, cultural understanding, and strategic alignment.