The armies of India and Malaysia yesterday (24 October) commenced a joint military exercise 'Harimau Shakti 2023' at Umroi Cantonment, Meghalaya.

The Malaysian Army contingent participating in the exercise consists of troops from the 5th Royal Battalion. The Indian contingent is represented by a battalion of the Rajput Regiment.

The previous edition of Exercise Harimau Shakti took place in Pulai, Kluang, Malaysia in November 2022.

Exercise Harimau Shakti is scheduled to run until 5 November 2023, and it involves approximately 120 personnel from both sides. The primary objective is to enhance military capabilities for conducting multi domain operations in a sub-conventional scenario.

During the exercise, both contingents will establish a joint command post and create an integrated surveillance grid, along with a joint surveillance centre.

The participating forces will practice the deployment of joint forces in jungle, semi-urban, and urban environments. Additionally, they will rehearse intelligence collection, collation, and dissemination drills.

The exercise will also involve the use of drones and helicopters. Both sides will conduct casualty management and evacuation drills. Logistics management discussions and survival training at the battalion level will be part of the training.

The focus of the exercise will be on achieving a high level of physical fitness, conducting tactical-level drills, and sharing best practices between the two forces. The exercise will conclude with a 48-hour validation exercise in a semi-urban area.

The "Harimau Shakti" exercise aims to enhance defence cooperation between the Indian Army and the Malaysian Army, ultimately strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations, as per the official release.