The Indian Army contingent departed today to participate in 8^th edition of the biennial India-French Joint Military Exercise SHAKTI. The exercise will be conducted at Camp Larzac, La Cavalerie, France from 18^th June 2025 to 1^st July 2025.

The Indian contingent comprising of 90 personnel is being represented primarily by a Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles besides personnel from other arms and services. The French contingent comprising of 90 personnel will be represented by personnel from the 13^th Foreign Legion Half- Brigade (13^th DBLE).

Exercise SHAKTI is a biennial training engagement between the Indian and French Armies, aimed at enhancing interoperability, operational coordination, and military to military connect. This edition will focus on joint operations in a sub-conventional environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, with training being conducted in semi-urban terrain.

The exercise will provide a platform for both contingents to rehearse and refine tactical drills, share best practices in Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs), train on new generation equipment (contemporary military technologies) and strengthen physical endurance. It will also foster esprit-de-corps, mutual respect and professional camaraderie between the two armies.

Exercise SHAKTI-VIII underscores the growing defence cooperation between India and France and will strengthen strategic ties between the two friendly nations.

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NA/PK

Indiafrance Press Release