Battle drills in the desert: India–Malaysia Joint Military Exercise begins in Rajasthan

The exercise is being conducted from December 5 to December 18.

"The Indian contingent is being represented mainly by troops from the DOGRA Regiment," read a statement issued by the government.

The Malaysian side is being represented by troops from the 25th Battalion Royal Malaysian Army.

The aim of the exercise is to jointly rehearse conduct of Sub Conventional Operations under Chapter VII of United Nations Mandate.

The scope of the exercise includes synergising joint responses during counter-terrorist operations.

Both sides will practice tactical actions such as cordon, search and destroy missions, heliborne operations, etc.

In addition, Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), combat reflex shooting and Yoga will also form part of the exercise curriculum.

In the Exercise Harimau Shakti – 2025, both sides will rehearse drills to secure helipads and undertake casualty evacuation during counter-terrorist operations.

Collective efforts will focus on achieving an enhanced level of interoperability amongst the troops and reduce the risk of life and property while keeping the interests and agenda of the UN at the forefront during peace keeping operations.

Both sides will exchange views and practices of joint drills on a wide spectrum of combat skills that will facilitate the participants to mutually learn from each other.

Sharing of best practices will further enhance the level of defence cooperation between Indian Army and Royal Malaysian Army. The exercise will also foster strong bilateral relations between the two nations.