Umroi, Meghalaya: The 14th edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise, “VAJRA PRAHAR 2023,” commenced at the Joint Training Node in Umroi on November 21, 2023. Represented by personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) of the US Special Forces, the US contingent collaborated with the Indian Army contingent led by Special Forces personnel from the Eastern Command.
VAJRA PRAHAR is a joint exercise that focuses on sharing best practices and experiences in joint mission planning and operational tactics between the Indian Army and US Army Special Forces.
Originating in 2010, the first edition took place in India, and subsequent editions have been held to strengthen collaboration. The 13th edition occurred at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS), Bakloh (HP). The ongoing 14th edition is being conducted at Umroi Cantonment, Meghalaya, from November 21 to December 11, 2023.
Throughout the three-week duration, both sides jointly planned and rehearsed a series of Special Operations, Counter-Terrorist Operations, and Airborne operations in simulated conventional and unconventional scenarios in mountainous terrain. Key highlights included ‘Combat free fall insertion of troops from stand-off distances,’ ‘Water-borne insertion of troops,’ ‘Precision engagement of targets at long ranges,’ ‘Combat air controlling of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft,’ besides ‘Airborne insertion and sustenance of troops.’
VAJRA PRAHAR has evolved as a mechanism for exchanging ideas and sharing best practices between the Special Forces of both nations. It serves as a platform to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense cooperation between the armies of India and the United States of America.