Why in news?
The 10th edition of Exercise Garuda Shakti, a joint special forces drill between India and Indonesia, is being held from 3–12 December 2025 at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. This bilateral exercise aims to enhance cooperation and interoperability between the two nations’ armies in tackling terrorism and other security challenges.
Background
Garuda Shakti began in 2012 as a part of India’s Act East policy, which seeks closer ties with Southeast Asian countries. The exercise is conducted alternately in India and Indonesia. The 9th edition in 2024 was held in Indonesia and included underwater training and operations in urban and jungle terrain. Over the years, the drill has expanded to include a wide range of tactical skills, fostering trust and understanding between the two armies.
Objectives and activities
- Counter‑terrorism training: Troops practise unarmed combat, room clearing, hostage rescue and small‑team tactics to counter insurgents.
- Combat shooting and sniping: Participants hone marksmanship skills, including close‑quarter battle drills and precision shooting.
- Heliborne operations: The exercise includes rappelling from helicopters and conducting raids in mountainous terrain.
- Drone and counter‑UAS operations: Soldiers plan and execute missions using drones for reconnaissance and learn techniques to neutralise hostile unmanned systems.
- Cultural exchange: Joint exercises foster friendship and provide opportunities to understand each other’s military cultures and doctrines.
Significance
- Enhancing interoperability: Regular joint training enables soldiers to operate seamlessly together during combined operations, increasing readiness for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
- Strengthening diplomatic ties: Military cooperation deepens strategic relations between India and Indonesia, both members of regional forums such as ASEAN and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
- Promoting regional stability: Joint exercises send a message of unity against terrorism and support a rules‑based order in the Indo‑Pacific region.
Conclusion
Exercise Garuda Shakti exemplifies the growing defence partnership between India and Indonesia. By sharing best practices in special operations, the two countries enhance their ability to address common security challenges and contribute to peace and stability in the region.
Source: PIB release on 10th edition
