India, Sri Lanka Deploy K9s in Exercise Mitra Shakti

August 19, 2024

The 10th edition of Exercise Mitra Shakti, a joint military training exercise between India and Sri Lanka, is happening from August 12 to 25, 2024, at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. This year, military dogs, also called “K9s,” are playing a key role, showing how important they are in modern military operations.

K9 Deployment

The Indian Army has brought Zac, a two-and-a-half-year-old Belgian Malinois, who is skilled in various tactical operations like searching in jungles and conducting cordon-and-search missions. Trained military dogs like Zac make military operations more effective, proving to be valuable assets on the battlefield.

Zac’s Abilities

Zac has been trained in specialized skills like laser-guided attacks, retrieving weapons, and detecting explosives. His training at the Remount Veterinary Corps Centre has prepared him to handle complex tasks that support infantry soldiers in their missions.

Purpose of Exercise Mitra Shakti

Exercise Mitra Shakti aims to strengthen the joint military capabilities of India and Sri Lanka, especially in counter-insurgency operations that focus on semi-urban areas. The exercise includes practical drills that simulate responses to terrorism, setting up joint command centers, and using advanced surveillance techniques.

Tactical Drills

During the exercise, participants will practice different tactical drills, including:

Responding to terrorist actions
Setting up intelligence and surveillance centers
Securing landing sites
Carrying out special helicopter and ground operations

These drills help improve teamwork and the ability of the two armies to work together effectively.

Joint Operations and Sharing Best Practices

By taking part in Exercise Mitra Shakti, both armies can share their best practices for tactics, techniques, and procedures in joint operations. This helps build camaraderie and mutual understanding, strengthening the military relationship between India and Sri Lanka.

About K9 Dogs

K9s have been used since World War I for various roles. German Shepherds are the most common breed for military work due to their strong sense of smell, which is about 40 times greater than that of humans. Belgian Malinois, like Zac, are often chosen for their agility. During World War II, dogs were used to carry messages. Today, military dogs can perform search and rescue missions and have saved many lives. When they retire, they are often adopted, highlighting their important service.

About Exercise Mitra Shakti

Exercise Mitra Shakti is a joint military training exercise between India and Sri Lanka that began in 2012. It focuses on improving the ability of both armies to work together, especially in counter-terrorism operations and providing humanitarian aid. The exercise usually lasts about two weeks and includes tactical drills, cultural exchanges, and opportunities to learn about each country’s military equipment. It strengthens the relationship between the two nations and enhances their ability to respond to challenges in the Indian Ocean region, symbolizing their commitment to peace and stability.

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