The 15th edition of Exercise Vajra Prahar commenced on Monday at the Orchid Combat Training Centre in Idaho, marking a new chapter in the military collaboration between India and the United States. This joint Special Forces exercise aims to enhance interoperability and exchange best practices between the elite units of both nations, as confirmed by the Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI).

In a post on X, the ADG PI detailed the opening ceremony, where the military contingents introduced themselves, shared cultural insights, and fostered bonds of friendship and respect. The atmosphere was enriched by a joint celebration of Deepawali, with the Indian contingent exchanging sweets with their US counterparts, underscoring the spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange.

“The opening ceremony of the 15th edition of Exercise Vajra Prahar 2024 was held at the Orchid Combat Training Centre in Idaho, USA. Contingents introduced themselves, shared cultural insights, and were briefed about the conduct of the exercise. In the spirit of Deepawali, the Indian contingent exchanged sweets with the US contingent to celebrate the festival together,” the ADG PI posted.

Exercise Vajra Prahar, scheduled from November 2 to November 22, involves 45 personnel from each country’s Special Forces. The Indian Army is represented by its Special Forces units, while the US Army is fielding its elite Green Berets. The training will focus on enhancing cooperation, joint operations capability, and the mutual exchange of special operations tactics, particularly in desert and semi-desert environments.

This year’s Vajra Prahar follows the last edition held in Umroi, Meghalaya, in December 2023. It also marks the second joint exercise between the Indian and US armies this year, after Exercise Yudh Abhyas held in Rajasthan in September 2024.

(Inputs from ANI)