Indian Army contingent departs for France for joint military exercise 'Shakti'

ANI June 17, 2025 280 views

The Indian Army has sent a 90-member contingent to France for the 8th edition of Exercise Shakti. The joint drills will focus on counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban terrain, improving tactical coordination. The exercise includes training on new-generation military equipment and sharing best practices. This strengthens the strategic defence partnership between India and France.

"Exercise Shakti will foster synergy in counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban terrain" – ADGPI
New Delhi, June 17: An Indian Army contingent, comprising 90 personnel, departed for France on Tuesday to participate in the 8th edition of the biennial India-France Joint Military Exercise 'Shakti'.

Key Points

1

90 Indian Army personnel from J&K Rifles head to France

2

Focus on counter-terrorism drills in semi-urban terrain

3

Enhances India-France military ties and interoperability

4

Includes training on new-gen military tech

According to a release by the Ministry of Defence, the contingent, primarily from the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles along with members from other arms and services, will participate in the exercise, scheduled from June 18 to July 1, at Camp Larzac, La Cavalerie, France.

Meanwhile, the French contingent, also consisting of 90 personnel, will be represented by the 13th Foreign Legion Half-Brigade (13th DBLE).

The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen strategic ties between the two nations.

As per the release, the exercise will highlight the growing defence cooperation between India and France.

Exercise 'Shakti', a biennial training engagement, focuses on joint operations in a sub-conventional environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, with training conducted in semi-urban terrain.

The exercise will serve as a platform for both armies to rehearse and refine tactical drills, share best practices in Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs), and train on new generation equipment, including contemporary military technologies.

It will also foster physical endurance, esprit de corps, mutual respect, and professional camaraderie between the two forces. This edition of 'Shakti' underscores the deepening military-to-military connection and operational coordination between India and France, aligning with their broader strategic partnership.

"Exercise SHAKTI is a biennial training engagement between the Indian and French Armies, aimed at enhancing interoperability, operational coordination, and military to military connect. This edition will focus on joint operations in a sub-conventional environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, with training being conducted in semi-urban terrain," the release stated.

"The exercise will provide a platform for both contingents to rehearse and refine tactical drills, share best practices in Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs), train on new generation equipment (contemporary military technologies) and strengthen physical endurance. It will also foster esprit de corps, mutual respect and professional camaraderie between the two armies," it added.

The Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) of the Army also took to X to make the announcement.

"The Indian Army contingent has departed today for France to participate in the 8th edition of Exercise Shakti, taking place in La Cavalerie, France, from 18 June to 01 July 2025. The Exercise will foster synergy and interoperability in conduct of counter terrorism operations in semi urban terrain," ADGPI stated in the post.

Last year, the 7th edition of the exercise was conducted from May 13-26 in the Umroi region of Meghalaya.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the article:
R
Rahul K.
This is excellent news! France has been one of our most reliable defense partners. After Rafale jets, now joint exercises - our strategic partnership is growing stronger. Hope our soldiers gain valuable experience in counter-terrorism operations. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
P
Priya M.
While I appreciate the military cooperation, I hope we're also focusing on indigenous defense manufacturing. Exercises are good, but we should reduce dependence on foreign equipment in the long run. Atmanirbhar Bharat should be the ultimate goal.
V
Vikram S.
Training with the French Foreign Legion? That's some elite company! These exercises will give our troops exposure to different combat techniques. The semi-urban terrain focus is especially relevant given today's security challenges. Kudos to our armed forces 👏
A
Ananya R.
France has stood with India through thick and thin. Remember how they supported us during Kargil when others hesitated? Such military exercises strengthen that bond. Also good to see Jammu & Kashmir Rifles getting international exposure - they deserve it after serving in tough conditions.
S
Sanjay P.
Hope the government ensures proper budget allocation for such programs. While international exercises are important, we must not neglect our soldiers' basic needs and welfare. The recent Agniveer scheme has raised some concerns - hope our troops get fair treatment.
N
Neha T.
Interesting that it's under UN Chapter VII. Shows India's growing role in global security. Maybe one day we'll have permanent UNSC seat too! Meanwhile, stay safe our brave soldiers. Bring home new knowledge but come home safe 🙏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Indian Army France Exercise Shakti Jammu and Kashmir Rifles military exercise counter-terrorism defence cooperation