The 11th edition of Garuda Shakti, a joint exercise between Indian and Indonesian special forces, has begun. The military exercise is being conducted from 27 October to 6 November 2026 in Banyuwangi, Indonesia. In this, the special forces of both the countries will practice combat skills in difficult situations through jungle operations, air assault and combat training.

Soldiers of the Special Forces of the Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army are participating in this exercise. At the same time, Indonesian Special Forces soldiers have participated. The main objective of the exercise is to enhance mutual understanding, cooperation and capability to conduct joint operations between the special forces of the two countries. This can prove important in building strategic partnerships and trust.

Training from jungle warfare to air strikes

During the ‘Garud Shakti’ exercise, soldiers will be trained to conduct military operations in different scenarios. In which training will be given to conduct special military operations in the forest. In this, emphasis will be placed on overcoming obstacles, accurate shooting, mountain warfare training, air assault and combat skills and developing ability to fight in difficult situations.

Apart from this, the soldiers of the two countries will also share experience in weapons, military equipment and operational strategies. A special recognition exercise will be conducted in the final phase of the exercise. This will create a real war-like situation and will test the endurance, mutual coordination and operational preparedness of the troops of both the countries.

Defense cooperation is expected to be further strengthened

‘Garud Shakti’ is an important joint military exercise to strengthen defense cooperation between India and Indonesia. This gives the special forces of both countries an opportunity to train, share experiences and improve joint operation capabilities. The exercise is expected to further strengthen defense cooperation between India and Indonesia.

The 10th edition of India-Indonesia joint exercise ‘Garud Shakti’ was conducted from 3 to 12 December 2025 at Special Forces Training School, Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.