The 16th edition of the India–US Joint Special Forces Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR is set to be conducted in Himachal Pradesh, with a contingent of the US Army arriving in India to take part in the high-intensity military drill. The exercise will be held at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh from February 24 to March 16, 2026, further strengthening the operational synergy between the two strategic partners.
The Indian Army will be represented by 45 personnel drawn from its Special Forces units, while the United States contingent will include 12 soldiers from the Green Berets, known for their expertise in unconventional warfare and special operations. The previous edition of the exercise was conducted at the Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, United States, in November 2024, reflecting the reciprocal nature of the bilateral training engagement.
Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR is aimed at enhancing military cooperation between India and the United States through greater interoperability, jointness, and the exchange of advanced special operations tactics. Designed to improve combined capabilities for conducting joint missions in challenging mountainous terrain, the exercise reflects the growing alignment of operational doctrines between the two armed forces.
Training activities during the exercise will place strong emphasis on intensive physical conditioning, joint mission planning, and the execution of coordinated tactical drills. Participating troops will also share best practices and operational experiences, particularly in the domains of special operations tactics, techniques, and procedures, enabling both sides to learn from each other’s combat philosophies and field experiences.
The exercise is expected to further deepen interoperability, mutual trust, and professional camaraderie between the Special Forces of both nations, reinforcing the expanding defence partnership between India and the United States amid evolving regional and global security challenges.
Reference: PIB
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