What did the Indo-French joint military exercise 'Shakti 2025' achieve?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced Tactical Interoperability: Focused on improving coordination between Indian and French forces.
- Modern Military Technology: Integrated advanced technologies for better combat strategies.
- Two Phased Training: Divided into joint drills and open-field combat exercises.
- Commitment to Peace: Reinforced dedication to global security and stability.
- Strengthened Partnerships: Fostered deeper military ties between India and France.
Paris, July 1 (NationPress) The eighth iteration of the Indo-French Joint Military Exercise 'Shakti' wrapped up on Tuesday following two weeks of rigorous training and collaboration between the Indian and French armed forces.
Taking place from June 18 to July 1 in France, the exercise was overseen by the 13th French Foreign Legion Demi-Brigade (13 DBLE) and involved over 500 personnel from various branches of the French Army, Foreign Legion, Navy, and the French Air and Space Force.
India sent a contingent of 90 members, featuring a Battalion from the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles along with troops from other divisions. The exercise showcased around 50 armored and tactical vehicles, in addition to fighter jets from both nations.
The training was divided into two phases. The first phase, conducted from June 18 to 21 in Monclar, Aveyron, concentrated on joint weapon handling, combat drills, and command cooperation.
The second phase, which took place from June 22 to 26 in Herault, involved the Monclar Combined Arms Tactical Group (GTIA) engaging in an open-field semi-urban combat exercise, testing troops during both daytime and nighttime operations.
This year’s drill highlighted tactical interoperability, the integration of modern military technology, and the refinement of combat strategies. French legionnaires had previously participated in Shakti 2024 in India, and both nations reiterated their commitment to enhancing military collaboration and sharing best practices.
“Exercise Shakti was a crucial opportunity for Indian and French military personnel to enhance joint operational readiness for addressing the most challenging combat scenarios in a sub-conventional context under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, with training conducted in authentic semi-urban settings, while fostering relations with a strategic ally,” stated a press release from the French Embassy in New Delhi.
“Serving as an effective venue for exchanging best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPS), Exercise SHAKTI will facilitate deeper cooperation and mutual respect between the French and Indian armed forces, significantly strengthening the Indo-French defense partnership,” it added.
The Indo-French Shakti exercise acts as a vital platform for enhancing tactical, technical, and procedural synergy between the two nations. Alongside other bilateral defense exercises such as Garuda (Air Forces) and Varuna (Navies), Shakti symbolizes the evolving and resilient strategic partnership between India and France.
These regular joint exercises represent a testament to the shared commitment of both nations towards global peace, security, and stability.