India, Indonesia begin ‘Garuda Shakti’ exercise

• The 11th edition of the India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise Garuda Shakti commenced at Banyuwangi, Indonesia on October 27. It will conclude on November 6. 

• The Indian contingent comprises troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), while the Indonesian contingent comprises personnel from the Indonesian Special Forces.

• The exercise is conducted on a reciprocal basis and its first edition was conducted in the year 2012 in India.

• It aims to strengthen mutual understanding, cooperation and interoperability between the Special Forces of the two nations. 

• The training focuses on tactics, techniques and procedures for special operations in jungle environments, including obstacle crossing, combat marksmanship, mountaineering, air assault training and combat-hardening sessions. 

• It also includes the exchange of expertise and information on weapons, equipment and operational practices.

• The exercise will further strengthen defence cooperation and bilateral relations between India and Indonesia.

Other exercise with Indonesia: 

• Samudra Shakti - Naval exercise.