India ,France 

'Shakti-2024' marks the seventh edition of joint military exercises between India and France, focusing on ground control operations in challenging terrains with the participation of Air Force assets for the first time, reflecting the deepening Indo-French defense ties and commitment to regional security.

The seventh edition of the joint military exercise between the Indian and French Armies, known as ‘Shakti-2024’, commenced on Monday at the Eastern Command’s Joint Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya. This exercise, held alternatively in India and France, will run until May 26, with a focus on training for ground control operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain under United Nations mandate. Notably, this year’s exercise includes Air Force assets for the first time, alongside Navy and Air Force observers, marking a significant advancement in its complexity compared to previous editions.

One key highlight of ‘Shakti-2024’ is the participation of a larger contingent, with twice the number of troops compared to previous exercises. The exercise commenced with a brigade-level command post-exercise, showcasing the depth and intensity of the training involved.

The French contingent, consisting of 90 personnel from the elite corps of the French Army known as Legion etrangere (Foreign Legion), brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the exercise. Their involvement underscores the growing collaboration between India and France in the defense sector.

This year’s ‘Shakti’ exercise is part of the broader efforts to strengthen Indo-French defense ties, following French President Emmanuel Macron’s State Visit to India earlier in the year. Recent high-level visits, including the official visit of CDS General Anil Chauhan to France and the visits of the French Navy and Army Chiefs to India, have further cemented this cooperation.

The exercise also reflects the deepening engagement between the two nations in various domains, including naval exercises and joint military drills. A recent port call by a French frigate, FNS Bretagne, in Kerala, and upcoming naval exercises like ‘Varuna’, demonstrate the growing synergy between the Indian and French armed forces.

Defense and security cooperation between India and France have been identified as a cornerstone of their strategic partnership. This was reaffirmed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France in 2023, with the adoption of the Horizon 2047 Roadmap. The aim is to enhance both nations’ sovereignty and strategic autonomy while fostering peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the exercise, Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, emphasized the unique bond between the two nations, highlighting the reciprocal invitations extended to leaders on their respective National Days. He underscored the aim of the Indo-French defense cooperation to strengthen sovereignty, strategic autonomy, and contribute to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

In conclusion, the ‘Shakti-2024’ exercise symbolizes the deepening Indo-French defense cooperation and underscores the commitment of both nations to enhance mutual capabilities and contribute to regional stability.