In News:

The 16th edition of Exercise Vajra Prahar (2026) is held from 23 February to 15 March at Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, focusing on counter-terror and advanced special operations interoperability between India and the US.

About Exercise Vajra Prahar

• Exercise Vajra Prahar is a bilateral Special Forces exercise conducted between India and the United States to enhance defence cooperation, interoperability, and joint operational readiness.

Key Objectives

• Exchange of advanced Special Operations Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs)
• Strengthening counter-terrorism capabilities
• Improving precision strike capabilities
• Enhancing intelligence-based mission planning
• Conducting joint planning under simulated battlefield conditions
• Building mutual trust and operational synergy

The exercise is conducted in realistic combat scenarios, helping both forces refine coordination in high-risk operations.

Focus Areas in 2026

The 16th edition will emphasize:

• Counter-terror operations
• Precision targeting
• Intelligence-driven missions
• Joint operational planning
• Special Forces operations in diverse terrains

Previous Editions

• 15th Edition (2024): Held in Idaho, USA
  • Participation: 45 personnel from each side
  • US contingent represented by the Green Berets
• 2023 Edition: Conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya
  • Included joint drills with the Indian Air Force
  • Featured Mi-17 helicopter operations at Umiam Lake
  • Helocasting operations demonstrated high operational precision

Exercise Vayushakti-26

Apart from Vajra Prahar, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26.

Key Details

• Venue: Pokhran Air to Ground Range, Jaisalmer
• Date: 27 February 2026
• Nature: Firepower and full-spectrum air power demonstration exercise

Objectives of Vayushakti-26

• Demonstrate IAF’s rapid response and strike capability
• Showcase transformation of tactical actions into strategic outcomes
• Highlight role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
• Display readiness for conflict and emergency evacuation operations