An Indian Army contingent of Special Forces personnel has set out for Banyuwangi, Indonesia, to take part in Exercise Garuda Shakti 2026. The 12th edition of the bilateral military exercise is scheduled to bring Indian and Indonesian troops together for professional training and coordination.
The stated aim of the exercise is to improve defence cooperation and operational coordination between India and Indonesia. It will also focus on interoperability, combat readiness and the exchange of expertise in special operations, especially in jungle conditions.
Focus on special operations training
According to the information provided, the exercise will centre on the sharing of tactics, techniques and procedures, or TTPs, used in special operations. The training is expected to include counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism scenarios, giving the participating personnel a chance to compare operational experiences and understand each other’s military procedures.
Jungle warfare is described as a difficult operating environment because of dense vegetation, restricted visibility, challenging terrain and harsh climatic conditions. For Special Forces units, such settings demand precision, adaptability and close coordination while carrying out complex missions.
Part of a wider defence relationship
The exercise is expected to strengthen mutual understanding and professional cooperation between the Indian Army and the Indonesian military. It is also being presented as a platform for both sides to enhance their ability to operate effectively in demanding tactical situations.
Exercise Garuda Shakti has become a recurring feature of defence engagement between India and Indonesia. Through this engagement, the two countries exchange operational knowledge, reinforce military-to-military ties and cooperate on shared security concerns.
The 12th edition of the exercise reflects the continued commitment of India and Indonesia to deepen their strategic partnership through joint military training and professional exchanges. It also underlines India’s emphasis on defence engagement with Southeast Asian nations and regional security cooperation.
