The Aryavarth Express
New Delhi: The closing ceremony of the fifth edition of the joint military exercise Harimau Shakti between the Indian Army and the Malaysian Army was held on Friday at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.
The two-week-long exercise focused on joint tactical drills and sub-conventional operations conducted under a United Nations mandate. It aimed to enhance operational synergy, interoperability, and mutual trust between the two armies.
According to the Indian Army, the exercise significantly strengthened the joint capability of both forces to carry out counter-terrorism and sub-conventional operations in semi-urban and urban environments, reflecting their shared commitment to regional peace, stability, and defence cooperation. “Together we stand ready for tomorrow,” the Army stated.
The fifth edition of Harimau Shakti commenced on December 5 and concluded on December 18. During the exercise, troops from both sides participated in a wide range of training activities, including Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR) drills, helicopter slithering, and low-hover jumps from MI-17 helicopters. Counter-IED familiarisation was also conducted through structured briefings and visits to specialised training facilities.
The exercise featured a joint display of weapons and equipment, showcasing next-generation systems used at company and battalion levels. Yoga sessions and friendly sports events were organised to promote physical fitness and foster camaraderie among the participating troops.
As part of the training module, soldiers were introduced to Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorism concepts, followed by lectures and demonstrations on patrolling techniques. Mixed teams carried out joint patrolling rehearsals under simulated operational conditions to improve coordination, decision-making, and mission planning.
Ambush theory sessions and practical demonstrations enhanced small-team offensive skills, while a Command Post Exercise strengthened tactical planning and battlefield management. Heliborne insertion techniques were practised through slithering drills, adding realism suited to dense and restrictive terrain.
The Indian Army said the exercise once again reinforced professional bonds, mutual trust, and defence cooperation between India and Malaysia through realistic training and shared operational experiences.
